Nigerian Actor Ayoyinka Appeals for Financial Support

Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, best known for his iconic role as the bumbling patriarch Papa Ajasco in the long-running comedy series, has publicly appealed for financial support amid ongoing professional and personal hardships. The 65-year-old performer shared his struggles in a recent interview with media personality Lucky Udu and a video posted on his newly created Instagram page over the weekend, highlighting how intellectual property restrictions have curtailed his career opportunities.

Ayoyinka explained that the Papa Ajasco character, including its distinctive bald cap and costume, is trademarked by Wale Adenuga Productions, the company behind the series. This ownership prevents him from using the persona for endorsements, advertisements, or other commercial ventures without 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 said in the interview. He added that producers often seek him out specifically for the character, making it difficult to secure roles as himself. "Because that character is very strong, they want to see me as Papa, dress like Papa, look like Papa. It is...