Wale Adenuga Breaks Silence on Sacking Abiodun Ayoyinka: Allegations of Trademark Theft and Unauthorized Tours

Filmmaker Wale Adenuga details the trademark dispute and unauthorized tours that led to Abiodun Ayoyinka's dismissal. Learn about the actor's new name, Bondu Alaska.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 28, 2026, 6:28 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Legit.ng

The "Papa Ajasco" Trademark Scandal Unveiled

For years, the Nigerian entertainment industry has speculated about the turbulent relationship between legendary producer Wale Adenuga and Abiodun Ayoyinka, the face of the beloved "Papa Ajasco" character. In a recent detailed interview, Adenuga clarified that the initial decision to axe the actor was not due to creative differences but what he termed "serious misconduct." The producer alleged that the Nigerian Copyright Commission alerted his team to a clandestine attempt by Ayoyinka to register the "Papa Ajasco" brand as his own independent trademark. This revelation served as a final breaking point for the production house, leading to the actor's immediate dismissal for what Adenuga described as a profound betrayal of trust.

Unauthorized Tours and Brand Dilution

Beyond the trademark dispute, Adenuga disclosed that the actor had engaged in unauthorized commercial activities using the show's intellectual property. Ayoyinka allegedly organized private tours and public appearances under the "Papa Ajasco" moniker without obtaining consent from Wale Adenuga Productions. These actions were viewed by the brand owners as a direct threat to the integrity and exclusivity of the franchise. Adenuga noted that while managing stars often requires a balance of "talent and temperament," the commercial exploitation of a brand by a lead actor is a line that cannot be crossed in the professional filmmaking industry.

Practical Reinstatement Over Sentiment

Despite the severity of the allegations that led to his first exit, Ayoyinka eventually returned to the series years later. Adenuga explained that this decision was purely pragmatic. He admitted that Ayoyinka possessed a "unique talent" that defined the character for a generation, making it difficult for audiences to accept any replacement. "Sometimes the most talented can also be the most difficult," Adenuga remarked, noting that as a producer, one often has to tolerate complex personalities to preserve the quality and appeal of a project. The reinstatement was a business move aimed at satisfying fan demand and maintaining the show's high ratings.