Why I Can’t Use The Name ‘Papa Ajasco’ Outside The Show – Abiodun Ayoyinka

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Veteran Nollywood actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has opened up about the struggles he has faced despite becoming widely recognised for playing the iconic character Papa Ajasco

The actor, who gained nationwide fame through the popular television series Papa Ajasco & Company, revealed that life has not been easy for him in recent years.

Speaking during an interview with media personality Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka explained that the legal ownership of the Papa Ajasco character has limited his ability to fully benefit from the fame the role brought him.

According to him, the character is officially registered by Wale Adenuga, the creator and owner of the production company behind the show.

Because of this, Ayoyinka said he cannot freely use the Papa Ajasco identity for personal appearances, endorsements, or commercial engagements without permission.

The veteran actor explained that many brands and organisations approach him for collaborations, but they often want him to appear specifically as Papa Ajasco  complete with the distinctive costume, bald head, and comic mannerisms that made the character famous. 

However, since the rights to the character belong to the production company, he cannot accept such offers independently.

“The major problem is that particular character has been registered by Wale Adenuga,” Ayoyinka said during the interview.

 “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 further clarified that he does not have the authority to use the character’s name or appearance on his own. 

According to him, even wearing the costume associated with the role requires official permission.

“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 stated.

Ayoyinka noted that the strong public association between him and the character has created another challenge.

Because audiences strongly identify him with Papa Ajasco, many people struggle to see him beyond the role, which has limited his opportunities to build a broader acting or commercial career outside the franchise.

“Because that character is very strong, they want to see me as Papa, dress like Papa, look like Papa,” he said. “It is always difficult for me to do it.”

Beyond the limitations surrounding the character, the actor also spoke candidly about the personal difficulties he has faced in recent years.

 Ayoyinka disclosed that he previously worked with the Lagos State Government in the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture before retiring about five years ago.

However, he admitted that life after retirement has been challenging. 

The veteran entertainer revealed that he still struggles with basic needs and has not been able to achieve certain personal milestones many people might expect from a well-known actor.

“Things have never been okay for years now,” he said. “I retired five years ago, and it has never been easy for me to move around and connect with people.”

He added that he does not currently own a house or a car, describing the situation as one that constantly weighs on his mind.

Despite these challenges, Ayoyinka remains one of the most recognisable faces in Nigerian television history, thanks to his memorable portrayal of Papa Ajasco, a character that became a cultural symbol of comedy and satire for many viewers across the country.

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