‘Papa Ajasco’ actor Abiodun Ayoyinka cries out over financial, career struggles

Veteran actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known as “Papa Ajasco,” has opened up about the financial hardship and career limitations he has faced in recent years.

In an interview with internet personality Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka revealed that the character he made famous is trademarked by the production company. This, he said, prevents him from using the persona for personal projects, endorsements, or advertisements.

“That particular character has been registered,” Ayoyinka 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. So it’s painful.”

He added that he does not have 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. Because of this, I have limited opportunities,” he said.

Ayoyinka, who retired five years ago from his civil service role at the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, described his post-retirement life as extremely difficult. “Things have never been okay. No car in my home, no house of my own. I don’t have a car,” he revealed.

The actor used the interview to appeal to fans and the public, sharing the harsh reality behind the beloved comic character that has entertained generations of Nigerians.