Veteran producer Wale Adenuga has addressed actor Abiodun Ayoyinka’s recent statements about financial difficulties, defending his company and questioning claims of hardship.
Ayoyinka, who has portrayed the iconic Papa Ajasco character for nearly 30 years, revealed in a recent interview that he earns ₦45,000 per episode, recording roughly 13 episodes annually, and that life after retiring from his Lagos State civil service job has been challenging. He stated he does not currently own a car or a home.
In response, Adenuga, Chairman and Executive Producer of Wale Adenuga Productions, praised Ayoyinka’s talent and described their relationship as amicable. He highlighted Ayoyinka’s long tenure of over 30 years in the Lagos State Civil Service, where he served as the face of the state’s cultural troupe, and questioned the actor’s management of his gratuities and retirement benefits.
Adenuga also clarified that the production company had provided vehicles to Ayoyinka over the years and that he is believed to own a home in Ogun State. On copyright matters, Adenuga explained that the Papa Ajasco brand is protected, but cast members are free to take on work under their own names.
The producer further outlined the show’s production schedule, noting that filming occupies roughly six weeks per year, leaving actors time to pursue other projects. He denied any claims of exploitation, stating that the company compensates cast members according to industry standards.
The exchange has prompted wider discussion about compensation, retirement, and opportunities for veteran actors in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
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