Popular Nigerian actor, Abiodun Ayoyinka, famed for his long-running role as Papa Ajasco, has unveiled a new public identity.
In a video shared via his Instagram page on Saturday, the entertainer announced his new stage name, Bondu Alaska.
The development comes on the heels of his recent revelation about financial struggles, as well as a public disagreement with Wale Adenuga, founder of Wale Adenuga Productions, over limitations tied to the use of the “Papa Ajasco” brand.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, good morning Nigerians. My name is Bondu Alaska. The one and only Bondu Alaska,” the veteran entertainer declared in the viral clip on Saturday.
Appreciating the support he received after his recent interview gained traction, he said, “I want to use this medium to thank Nigerians because they have done a lot in my life. I’m a new person now, and I promise that I will not let you down”.
As part of the transition, the actor has updated his Instagram handle to @bondualaska_ and urged fans and brands to engage with him through his new identity.
However, reactions from fans suggest that many still strongly associate him with the Papa Ajasco persona.
Commenting on the post, a user, hhenriey, wrote, “You are Papa Ajasco, not Bondu Alaska. We’ll help you spread it to the world.”
Another fan, official_igbalodedjpizzle, joked, “Na Papa Ajasco. Nothing wey you wan tell him cuz NEPA na still NEPA.”
The shift is widely seen as a calculated move in response to restrictions surrounding the use of his former screen identity.
Earlier, it was reported that Adenuga described Ayoyinka’s statement about being “broke” as “misleading” and “untrue,” noting that the actor had enjoyed several benefits over the years, including the provision of multiple vehicles.
He further explained that while the “Papa Ajasco” brand must be safeguarded against “inappropriate usage,” the actors were not restricted from pursuing independent engagements.
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