‘Papa Ajasco’ character, Abiodun Ayoyinka laments financial, career struggles

By Emmanuel Okogba

Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, best known for portraying the beloved “Papa Ajasco” character in the long-running family sitcom, has spoken candidly about the severe financial hardship and career limitations he has faced for several years.

In a recent emotional interview with internet personality, Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka explained that the “Papa Ajasco” character has been trademarked and registered by the production company, severely restricting his ability to use the persona for personal projects, endorsements, advertisements, or public appearances.

“That particular character has been registered,” he said. “Anybody that wants to use me outside, they want to use me with the character with everything that I have. But it has never been easy for me. That’s why you don’t see me on adverts. You don’t see me on billboards and all that. So it’s painful.”

He added that he lacks exclusive rights to the character and must seek permission even to reference it commercially.

“I don’t have the right. I can’t use the name unless I go and take permission,” Ayoyinka stated. “Because of this, I have limited opportunities.”

The actor, who said he retired five years ago from his civil service role with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, described his post-retirement life as extremely difficult.

“Things have never been okay,” he told his interviewer. “No car in my home, no house of my own. I don’t have a car.”

Ayoyinka appealed directly to his fans and the public, using the interview as an opportunity to share his current reality.

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