Papa Ajasco star adopts ‘Bondu Alaska’ identity following trademark limitations

Nigerian comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, famed for his iconic role as Papa Ajasco in the popular 1990s sitcom, has announced a new stage name, officially adopting the identity “Bondu Alaska.” The move comes after long-standing limitations on the independent use of the Papa Ajasco character affected his access to endorsements and acting opportunities.

The 65-year-old actor shared the announcement in a video on his Instagram page on Saturday, expressing gratitude to his fans and promising renewed dedication to his craft.

“I am a new person now. I promise I will not let you down,” he said in the clip, which went viral on Sunday.

Ayoyinka previously explained that restrictions surrounding the Papa Ajasco brand prevented him from leveraging the character for personal or commercial engagements outside the show, limiting opportunities for advertisements, film roles, and public appearances.

However, Wale Adenuga, producer of Papa Ajasco and Company, refuted the actor’s claims, calling them “misleading, unfounded and untrue.”

Adenuga emphasised that Ayoyinka enjoyed a cordial working relationship with the production company and received considerable support, including vehicles and other benefits, during his tenure on the show.

Adenuga further clarified that the Papa Ajasco character is a registered trademark, which legally restricts its independent use. He noted that Ayoyinka was still eligible to participate in promotional activities or endorsements, provided proper approval was obtained from Wale Adenuga Productions.

Papa Ajasco and Company, known for its exaggerated humour and moral lessons, featured memorable characters such as Pa James, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, and Papa Ajasco himself—a bald patriarch whose misadventures drove the storylines. The show was a major television hit in Nigeria during the late 1990s and early 2000s.