16/03/2026
Veteran actor famous for playing Papa Ajasco (Abiodun Ayoyinka) says that despite acting the role for decades, he still has no house and no car of his own
According to him, when he started acting the series produced by Wale Adenuga around 1997, he was being paid about ₦2,500 per episode.
Over the years, the payment increased gradually to ₦3,000, ₦4,000, ₦5,000, ₦20,000 and ₦25,000.
Today in 2026, he says he earns about ₦45,000 per episode which is even below Nigeria’s ₦70,000 minimum wage.
He also explained that the character “Papa Ajasco” has been trademarked by Wale Adenuga. Because of this, he cannot take endorsement deals or commercial opportunities using the character without permission from the trademark owner.
But legally, is there anything he can still do now?
Possibly yes, depending on the circumstances.
🥢 He may review the contract he signed to see whether there are provisions for better remuneration, royalties, or other benefits.
🥢 If the character and show continue to generate commercial value, he may negotiate improved terms or compensation with the producer.
🥢 In some cases, where the arrangement appears grossly unfair or exploitative, the matter could even become a subject of legal review or renegotiation.
However, as long as the trademark for the character is validly registered, the actor cannot independently commercialize the character without permission from the owner.
The legal lesson for young creatives
Before playing a major character in a film or TV series, always understand:
🥢 Who owns the character rights
🥢 Whether you are entitled to royalties or residual payments
🥢 What happens if the show becomes commercially successful years later
Because in law, being the face of a character does not always mean you own it. The real ownership usually belongs to the person who created it, registered it, or protected it through a contract.
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