Bolatito Sowunmi, the actress who once played Miss Pepeye on Wale Adenuga’s ‘Papa Ajasco and Company’, has opened up about her experience on the show and addressed the ongoing conversation surrounding her former colleagues.

In a recent Facebook post, Sowunmi, who joined the series in 2006 and resigned after a decade, called on critics to show empathy rather than attack veteran actors for speaking out about their struggles.

She emphasised that only those directly involved truly understand the situation, and argued that not everyone airs grievances for clout or negative attention.

Sowunmi also responded to comparisons between herself and the current actress playing Miss Pepeye, clarifying that her departure was for 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).”

The actress emphasised that the focus should be on supporting the veterans rather than discrediting them.

She also maintained that she holds no grievances against Wale Adenuga Productions, describing the platform as impactful for creatives.

Sowunmi highlighted the challenges within the entertainment industry, questioning how many actors who maintain integrity are truly thriving.

She added that financial struggles should not be dismissed, insisting that if someone says they are struggling, they should be believed.

“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 while working with the cast, she said she understands and knows their reality and admires their dedication to their craft.

She also pointed out that she cannot use the name Miss Pepeiye because it has been copyrighted by Wale Adenuga Productions, and that was why she switched to Ms Eagle.

“I have worked with these men (Papa Ajasco and Pajames), and sometimes we just spend time talking. I know what they are going through—even if they can’t fully open up. I have had my fair share too. These are men who diligently hustle with integrity, passion, and commitment to their craft and talents. I will always celebrate them,” she wrote.

“If I have money, I will buy cars and houses for them and even bless them financially without thinking twice, because they deserve it. We all deserve success, and we will continue to work towards it daily. One day, grace will find us. I have changed my nickname to “Ms Eagle” so my fans can still find it comfortable to switch.

“Miss Pepeiye is not mine; it is a copyrighted brand name of characters registered under Wale Adenuga Productions. Anyone playing that role at the time will have access to the name during their period of service. In all, my prayer is that God’s grace finds us and promotes our gifts, in Jesus’ name. I love you all. Keep soaring fearlessly.”

Sowunmi’s comments come days after Abiodun Ayoyinka, the lead actor who plays the title character ‘Papa Ajasco’, revealed that he is facing financial difficulties.

He said WAP restricts him from commercially benefiting from the Papa Ajasco persona outside the original production, limiting his income opportunities, and he appealed to the public for financial support.

In response, Adenuga stated that Ayoyinka is permitted to take on advertising roles with WAP’s approval.

He dismissed the actor’s career struggle remarks as a “public show of comedy” and a distortion of facts, suggesting Ayoyinka was using social media to generate income.

Kayode Olaseinde, known for the character of Pa James, also spoke about his working relationship with Wale Adenuga Productions, adding that the income alone cannot pay bills.