Why Former Cast Members Are Banned from Using Papa Ajasco Roles – Adenuga

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Veteran Nigerian producer and cartoonist Wale Adenuga has opened up on why his production company strictly controls the use of characters from Papa Ajasco & Company, insisting that former actors cannot continue performing as these characters after leaving the show.

 The statement comes amid renewed attention on the iconic comedy series following claims of financial difficulty by one of its former stars, Abiodun Ayoyinka.

Adenuga explained that the restriction is primarily about protecting the brand he has built over decades. According to him, the characters are intellectual property, and allowing individuals to use the names independently would undermine the integrity of the show. 

He compared it to other established brands, pointing out that no one can simply use a globally recognised name like Coca-Cola without permission, regardless of previous affiliation.

He recounted an incident where a former cast member requested to continue performing as "Pepeye" after leaving the show. Adenuga said the request was denied because it could confuse viewers and dilute the character’s identity, particularly since another actor was already playing the role.

 The producer emphasized that every script and performance under the Papa Ajasco banner is carefully reviewed to ensure it aligns with the company’s values and maintains audience trust. 

Even minor details, such as character names, have been adjusted over time to avoid cultural or religious insensitivity.

Addressing Ayoyinka’s past removal from the series, Adenuga revealed that breaches of trust were a key factor. 

The actor reportedly organised an unauthorised tour using the Papa Ajasco name and attempted to register the character independently, despite the show already having copyright protections in place.

 Adenuga described these actions as serious violations that forced the company to take decisive measures.

Despite these challenges, Adenuga noted that Ayoyinka was eventually brought back to the series because of his talent. 

He explained that actors are unique individuals, and managing them often requires balancing professional discipline with an understanding of their creative temperament. 

Exceptional talent, he said, sometimes comes with challenging behaviour, but producers must navigate this for the sake of the production. 

Adenuga also clarified that his company has a long-standing reputation for paying actors fully and on time, countering claims that Ayoyinka had been financially neglected.

Papa Ajasco & Company began as a comic strip before evolving into one of Nigeria’s most recognisable television comedies, with multiple actors portraying its lead roles over the years. Adenuga stressed that the show’s longevity and popularity are the result of careful management and a consistent commitment to quality. 

Protecting the characters and brand is essential to ensure that the series remains a cultural touchstone for audiences across generations, allowing the legacy of Papa Ajasco & Company to thrive while maintaining the trust of fans and preserving its iconic status.

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