
Veteran Nigerian comedian Abiodun Ayoyinka, famed for his role as Papa Ajasco in the 1990s television series, has made a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians for help acquiring a new phone.
The actor shared a video on Sunday, March 15, via the official Papa Ajasco Instagram page and that of actress Liz Da Silva, in which he disclosed his need for a phone. The video explained that the device previously used to create his Instagram account belonged to his daughter.
A caption accompanying the post encouraged followers to assist in any way possible: “No support is small. Kindly tag blogs that can help and remember to follow and share his page. Baba needs a good phone. If you have one you’re not using or can get him a new one, God bless you.”
Ayoyinka’s appeal also stems from longstanding financial challenges he revealed in conversations with online personality Lucky Udu. He recounted how his monthly pay increased only marginally from ₦22,500 in 1997 to ₦45,000 today. He further explained that the Papa Ajasco character is officially owned by Wale Adenuga, limiting his ability to monetise the brand independently.
“I don’t have a car of my own. I don’t have a house of my own,” Ayoyinka admitted, highlighting the financial strain faced despite his iconic status.
The appeal has sparked mixed reactions online. While many Nigerians expressed willingness to support the comedian, some questioned his previous management of finances.