Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has opened up about the personal and professional challenges he has faced despite gaining nationwide fame for playing the popular character Papa Ajasco.
Speaking in an interview with media personality Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka revealed that the legal ownership of the character has limited his ability to use the identity outside the well-known comedy franchise.
According to the actor, the character Papa Ajasco is legally registered by veteran producer Wale Adenuga and his company Wale Adenuga Productions. Because of this, Ayoyinka explained that he cannot freely use the character’s name, costume, or identity for personal or commercial purposes.
He noted that many brands and companies often approach him for advertisements and promotional work but want him to appear in the famous Papa Ajasco outfit and persona, something he cannot do without permission.
“The major problem is that particular character has been registered by Wale Adenuga. Anybody that wants to use me outside wants me with the character, with everything that I have, but it has never been easy for me,” he said.
Ayoyinka further explained that he does not have exclusive rights to the character he portrayed for many years.
“I don’t have the right. I can’t use the name Papa Ajasco unless I go and take permission. I can’t even use the costume,” he added.
The actor said the strong public association with the character has also made it difficult for him to secure opportunities as himself because people always expect to see him in the Papa Ajasco role.
“Because that character is very strong, they want to see me as Papa, dress like Papa, look like Papa. It is always difficult for me to do it,” he explained.
During the interview, Ayoyinka also revealed that he previously worked with the Lagos State Government under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture before retiring about five years ago.
However, he admitted that life has been challenging in recent years since leaving his government job.
“Things have never been okay for years now. I retired five years ago, and it has never been easy for me to move around and connect with people,” he said.
The actor also shared some of his personal struggles, noting that despite his fame on television, he still faces financial difficulties.
“I’m always thinking every day. Look at my home—I don’t have my own house. I don’t have a car,” he revealed.
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Ayoyinka is widely recognized for playing the title role in the popular Nigerian comedy series Papa Ajasco & Company, a production that became one of the most beloved and longest-running shows on Nigerian television. His portrayal of the humorous and bald-headed character made him a household name across the country.
Source: dailypost.ng | March 14, 2026