Wale Adenuga, the executive producer of Wale Adenuga Productions (WAP), has responded to claims by Abiodun Ayoyinka, the comic actor popularly known as Papa Ajasco, regarding financial struggles linked to his use of the iconic character.
Over the weekend, Ayoyinka alleged that WAP restricts him from commercially benefiting from the Papa Ajasco persona outside the original production, limiting his income opportunities.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Adenuga confirmed that while Ayoyinka cannot independently use the character for personal business ventures, so as to protect the brand’s image, he is permitted to take on advertisement roles with approval from WAP.
Adenuga dismissed Ayoyinka’s remarks as a “public show of comedy” and a distortion of facts, suggesting the actor is leveraging social media to generate income. He emphasised that their relationship remains cordial.
He also questioned Ayoyinka’s narrative of financial hardship, given his long career in civil service and ongoing opportunities in the industry.
“I am doing this not with malice, but in the interest of truth, transparency, and the integrity of a legacy that has entertained millions of Nigerians for decades,” the statement reads.
“Abiodun Ayoyinka was a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over three decades. He was even the face of the state’s cultural troupe, which endeared him to the likes of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his time as governor, as well as his successors. He retired not too long ago. In fact, we used to seek permission from his office anytime we needed him on location.”
Adenuga added that WAP had previously provided Ayoyinka with a vehicle and noted that he has since used at least five cars, including a Mercedes-Benz. He also mentioned that Ayoyinka owns a home in Ogun state.
“On the car issue, we once gave him a car and Pa James as well. He has also used not less than five cars, including a Mercedes-Benz, at different times,” he said.
Adenuga stated that no WAP cast member is barred from using their real names to take on other roles. He cited colleagues like Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma, who regularly feature in other productions under their personal names.
“His colleagues at WAP such as Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma are always on various film locations, working under their personal names. This clearly shows that artistes working with us are not restricted from taking other roles,” the statement added.
Adenuga reaffirmed that WAP compensates its talents in line with industry standards and meets all financial obligations promptly. He described allegations of financial neglect or exploitation as entirely false and misleading.
