The actress who once played Miss Pepeye on Wale Adenuga’s ‘Papa Ajasco and Company’, Bolatito Sowunmi, has shared insights into her time on the show while addressing ongoing discussions about former cast members.
In a recent Facebook post, the actress, who joined the series in 2006 and exited after ten years, appealed to critics to show understanding rather than attack veteran actors speaking about their challenges.
She stressed that only those directly involved fully grasp the realities behind the scenes, noting that not everyone chooses to speak out for attention or publicity.
Addressing comparisons between herself and the current Miss Pepeye, Sowunmi clarified that her departure was based on personal reasons.
“Those castigating Papa Ajasco for opening up should take a chill pill. Na we dey inside, na we know where the shoe pinches. No be everybody like to chase clout on social media, that’s why we are not talking. Besides, not everyone wants negative publicity,” she said.
“Some of you say Miss Pepeiye is doing well to water down the elderly man’s complaint. I’m way younger than him. He had been working long before I joined the company, and I have resigned for reasons best known to me (and we now have a young, beautiful, talented lady taking the role).”
She emphasised that the focus should be on supporting veteran actors rather than discrediting them, while maintaining that she harbours no resentment towards Wale Adenuga Productions, which she described as a valuable platform for creatives.
Sowunmi highlighted the financial realities within the entertainment industry, urging people to take such concerns seriously when raised.
“I’m facing my life—don’t use me as a yardstick. If the elderly man speaks up, I think the best thing is to support him in the best way you can, if you are led. This life is too short for all these epistles you all are writing to discredit him. And note, I will never talk down on Wale Adenuga Productions,” she added.
“They have done their part by creating a platform for creatives—it’s noble and appreciated. This is not the time for blame games. Everyone is pushing and doing their bit to survive, especially in a country like Nigeria where everything seems hard. The industry itself is not easy.
“How many genuine actors who keep their integrity and uphold their values are doing well? Forget the social media charades. If you see someone doing well financially, won’t it be obvious? If the elderly man says he is struggling, then he is. Do you want him to keep quiet and die in penury?”
Reflecting on her experience, she said she understands the struggles of her colleagues and admires their dedication to their craft.
She also revealed that she no longer uses the name Miss Pepeye due to its copyright under Wale Adenuga Productions, adopting “Ms Eagle” instead.
Sowunmi’s remarks come amid recent comments by Abiodun Ayoyinka, who plays Papa Ajasco, about his financial difficulties. He claimed restrictions on commercial use of the character have limited his income, while Wale Adenuga dismissed the claims as exaggerated and described them as a “public show of comedy.”