Despite his fame from portraying the legendary role Papa Ajasco, veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has opened out about the personal and professional challenges he has been suffering recently.
In an interview with media personality Lucky Udu, the actor revealed that his chances outside of the well-known comedy franchise have been restricted due to the trademark ownership of the well-known character.
Ayoyinka claims that experienced producer Wale Adenuga has officially registered the character Papa Ajasco through his production company, Wale Adenuga Productions. As a result, he is unable to freely use the pseudonym for endorsements, personal projects, or business dealings.
The actor said many companies often approach him for advertisements but specifically want him to appear as the famous Papa Ajasco character, complete with the costume and mannerisms that audiences recognize.
However, he explained that he does not have the legal right to do so 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 revealed that he cannot even use the name or costume associated with the character without official approval. “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 explained. The actor noted that the strong public association with the character has also made it difficult for him to secure opportunities as himself because many people expect to see him fully dressed as Papa Ajasco.
“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 added.
Ayoyinka also said that, before to retiring roughly five years ago, he was employed by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture. The actor claimed that despite having a lengthy career in the entertainment business, recent years have been challenging for him.
For years now, things have never been alright. Moving about and interacting with people has never been simple for me since I retired five years ago, he remarked. “Every day, I’m thinking.” Take a look at my house—I don’t own one. I don’t own a vehicle.
Ayoyinka is well-known for her role as the main character in the iconic Nigerian comedy series Papa Ajasco & Company, which went on to become one of the country’s most watched television programs.
