Papa Ajasco Actor Abiodun Ayoyinka Laments Financial Hardship Despite Iconic Role
In a candid and revealing interview, veteran comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, best known for his role as Papa Ajasco in the popular Nigerian sitcom, has opened up about the severe financial struggles he faces, despite nearly three decades of playing the beloved character. The actor disclosed that he earns a mere ₦45,000 per episode, a sum that has changed little over the years, and revealed he does not own a car or house.
Limited Earnings and Copyright Constraints
During a conversation with podcaster Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka shared that his income from the show remains modest, with payments of ₦45,000 per episode. He explained that the production records up to 13 episodes annually, but this income is sporadic, often stretching over one to two years. "They are paying me ₦45,000 per episode. We record up to 13 episodes, and it's till until a year or two years," he stated, underscoring the irregular nature of his earnings.
Ayoyinka highlighted a significant barrier to his financial growth: the copyright of the Papa Ajasco character is owned by Wale Adenuga, the producer of the show. This registration restricts Ayoyinka from using the character for other opportunities, such as advertisements or brand endorsements, without explicit permission. "That particular character has been registered by Wale Adenuga, and anybody that wants to use me with the character, with everything that I have, it has not been easy for me, and that's why you don't see me on adverts and billboards. I can't use the character without asking for permission," he revealed. This limitation has prevented him from capitalizing on the character's popularity, which could have provided additional revenue streams.
Retirement and Current Livelihood
The actor also discussed his post-retirement life, having worked for the Lagos State Council for Art and Culture before retiring five years ago. Since then, he has relied on his role as Papa Ajasco as his primary source of income, but it has proven insufficient for a comfortable lifestyle. "I was working for Lagos State Council for Art and Culture. Now, I am a retired officer. I retired five years ago, and things have not been easy for me. I don't have a car or house of my own," Ayoyinka lamented, painting a stark picture of his economic situation.
His revelation has shocked fans of the sitcom, which first aired in 1996 and gained nationwide fame in the 1990s and 2000s. Papa Ajasco, with his distinctive bald head, pot belly, and trademark shirt and tie tucked into a wrapper, became a cultural icon alongside co-star Boy Alinco. The show was a flagship series of Wale Adenuga Productions, which also produced other hits like Super Story and This Life.
Broader Trend in Nollywood
Ayoyinka's financial woes are part of a troubling trend among veteran Nollywood actors who have fallen on hard times. In recent years, stars like Amaechi Muonagor and John Okafor (Mr. Ibu) publicly appealed for financial assistance amid health crises, both of whom sadly passed away. More recently, actress Halima Abubakar sought help for urgent medical surgery. These cases highlight the precarious financial stability in the entertainment industry, even for those who have achieved significant fame.
The interview with Lucky Udu, known for spotlighting former celebrities facing difficulties, has brought renewed attention to the challenges actors face post-peak fame. Ayoyinka's story serves as a poignant reminder of the need for better support systems and fair compensation in Nollywood, ensuring that iconic performers can sustain themselves beyond their years in the spotlight.
