KEY POINTS

• Abiodun Ayoyinka has rebranded from “Papa Ajasco” to “Bondu Alaska” due to ongoing trademark disputes with Wale Adenuga.
• The actor cited restrictions on monetizing the character and personal financial struggles as reasons for the change.
• Wale Adenuga clarified Ayoyinka can appear in approved advertisements but cannot independently use the “Papa Ajasco” brand; their relationship remains cordial.

Veteran Nigerian comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has announced that he will no longer perform under his long-standing stage name, “Papa Ajasco,” and will adopt a new identity, “Bondu Alaska.”

The move comes amid ongoing disputes over the commercial use and trademark of the character, which is owned by producer Wale Adenuga.

Ayoyinka shared the decision through a video on Instagram, explaining that trademark restrictions had prevented him from fully monetizing the widely recognized character. He also revealed that financial difficulties in recent years influenced his decision to rebrand and redefine his career beyond the “Papa Ajasco” persona.

Producer clarifies rights and maintains cordial relationship

In response, Wale Adenuga confirmed that while Ayoyinka cannot independently use the “Papa Ajasco” brand for personal business ventures, he is still permitted to appear in advertisements with the production company’s approval.

Adenuga dismissed previous claims by the actor as exaggerations and suggested that social media narratives may be used to gain attention or financial leverage. Despite the disagreement, Adenuga stressed that his relationship with Ayoyinka remains friendly.

Ayoyinka rose to prominence through the long-running television series “Papa Ajasco & Company,” an offshoot of the 1984 film created and directed by Adenuga. The rebranding marks a new phase for the actor, as he seeks to forge a distinct identity and explore opportunities beyond one of Nigeria’s most iconic comic characters.