Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, widely recognised for his role in the popular sitcom Papa Ajasco, has opened up about the severe financial hardship he has endured in recent years.
Speaking during an emotional interview with internet personality Lucky Udu, the actor revealed that despite the fame that came with the role, life has remained extremely difficult for him. According to him, the situation highlights the reality behind the Papa Ajasco actor struggles, which he says have persisted for several years.
Ayoyinka explained that the “Papa Ajasco” character has been trademarked and legally registered by the production company behind the show, preventing him from freely using the persona for personal projects, brand endorsements, advertisements, or other commercial engagements.
“That particular character has been registered,” he said. “Anybody that wants to use me outside usually wants the full character with everything that comes with it, but it has never been easy for me.”
He noted that the legal restriction has limited his professional opportunities and made it difficult for him to secure endorsements or public appearances linked to the character that made him famous.
“That’s why you don’t see me on adverts or billboards,” Ayoyinka said, describing the development as painful. “I don’t have the right to use the name unless I go and take permission.”
ALSO READ:Gospel singer Toun Soetan, composer of ‘Darling Jesus,’ dies at 73
The veteran actor said the inability to independently use the character has significantly affected his earning potential, further worsening the Papa Ajasco actor struggles he currently faces.
Ayoyinka also disclosed that he retired about five years ago from his civil service job with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, a transition that has made life even more challenging.
“Things have never been okay,” he said. “No car in my home, no house of my own. I don’t even have a car.”
The actor used the interview to appeal to fans and members of the public for support, saying he decided to share his story openly so people could understand the reality behind the Papa Ajasco actor struggles despite his long-standing presence in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
“I was getting ₦22,500 per episode of Papa Ajasco in 1997. Now in 2026 they pay me ₦45,000. I don’t have a home or car of my own. Its not been easy. I can’t take deals as Papa Ajasco without permission from Wale Adenuga.”
— 65yr old Abiodun Ayoyinka Papa Ajasco pic.twitter.com/q33sUSYoHF
— Trending Explained (@TrendingEx) March 14, 2026