Veteran cartoonist and producer Wale Adenuga has explained why his company does not allow former cast members to continue using characters from Papa Ajasco & Company after leaving the show.
He spoke amid renewed attention on the programme following claims of financial hardship by Abiodun Ayoyinka.
Adenuga said the restriction is necessary to protect the integrity of the brand built over decades.
“On brand ownership, it is important to understand that characters like Papa Ajasco are intellectual property. You cannot use such a name independently without permission. It is like Coca-Cola; you cannot start your own bottling company and use that name without consequences, even if you are the current Managing Director of the firm.
“We have carefully protected the Papa Ajasco brand for decades. For instance, a former cast member once requested to continue using the name ‘Pepeye’ after leaving, but we declined because it would confuse audiences and potentially damage the brand, especially as there is currently another person playing that role.”
He said managing the brand requires strict oversight, including reviewing scripts and making changes when necessary.
“Managing a brand is not easy. Every script and production must be carefully reviewed to ensure it aligns with our values and does not offend any group. Over the years, we have even made adjustments based on feedback; for example, changing a character’s name to avoid religious sensitivities.
“This is why we cannot allow individuals to use the brand freely. It has taken decades of consistency and discipline to build and maintain it.”
Adenuga also addressed Ayoyinka’s past removal from the show, linking it to actions he described as breaches of trust.
“Regarding the issue of his departure, the truth is that he committed serious offences. There was an instance where he organised an unauthorised tour using the Papa Ajasco name without our knowledge. We only found out through third parties. That alone was a major breach.
“Additionally, we were contacted by the Nigerian Copyright Commission, informing us that he attempted to register the Papa Ajasco name independently, despite the fact that it had already been registered by us over 20 years ago. That level of betrayal led to his dismissal.”
Despite this, Adenuga said he later allowed the actor to return because of his talent.
“However, I later brought him back because I understand the psychology of actors. Often, the most talented individuals can also be the most difficult to manage. As a producer, you sometimes have to choose between talent and temperament.
“Actors are unique personalities. Some may demand upfront payments or exhibit challenging behaviour, but if they are exceptional at what they do, you may have to tolerate certain things for the sake of the production.
“Despite everything, I would still work with him because he is a good actor. And to be clear, in our over 50 years in this industry, we are known for paying our actors in full before they leave the location. I do not tolerate being accused of owing anyone.”
Created by Adenuga, Papa Ajasco & Company began as a comic series before evolving into a television show and has remained one of Nigeria’s most recognisable comedy productions, with multiple actors playing its lead roles over the years.
