Veteran filmmaker and producer Wale Adenuga has hit back at claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka over his role in the iconic comedy Papa Ajasco and Company.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the 17th of March, 2026, Adenuga dismissed allegations of exploitation and financial neglect as “entirely false and misleading.”
Ayoyinka, famous for his portrayal of Papa Ajasco, had alleged that the character restricted his professional opportunities outside the long-running series.
Reacting to the trending video of Ayoyinka, Adenuga said, “My first impression when I watched the Papa Ajasco video now trending on the internet and local TV channels was ‘Okay, so this guy has taken Papa Ajasco comedy into the public space?
“It is all well and good. I am happy for him, as his money-making strategy using social media has apparently worked for him.”
Adenuga praised Ayoyinka’s talent but stressed the legal protection of the Papa Ajasco brand.
“He cannot use the copyrighted brand name Papa Ajasco for personal ventures because it is our duty to protect the brand from inappropriate usage that could damage its reputation,” he said.
He clarified that Ayoyinka is free to accept other work: “He has not been barred from accepting advert jobs… all that is required is to seek official approval from WAP. This is part of brand protection.”
Adenuga highlighted Ayoyinka’s long service as a retired civil servant with over three decades in the Lagos State Government.
“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,” Adenuga added.
Challenging claims of financial hardship, he asked, “Why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service… What happened to his gratuities?”
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He noted that other cast members, including Pa James, continue to take independent roles outside the show.
Adenuga explained the production schedule: “Abiodun Ayoyinka and other artistes in the TV show are on our set for six weeks in a whole year, thereby availing them enough time to pursue other endeavours.”
He added, “we record enough episodes to last for a year.”
Reaffirming Wale Adenuga Productions’ reputation, he stated, “The organisation pays according to industry standards and ensures all financial obligations are fulfilled as and when due.”
He concluded, “any narrative suggesting financial abandonment or exploitation by our organization is entirely false and misleading.”