Veteran Yoruba actor Oluwasesan Adio, popularly known as Pa Ojoge, has revealed that he relies on small contributions from friends to care for his family, highlighting financial difficulties faced by some veteran actors in Nigeria.
“I do not have money. I rely on other people to survive. Sometimes people give me ₦5,000, others can give me ₦10,000. That is how I am taking care of my children and wife,” Ojoge said in a recent interview.
The actor, famed for his comedic roles in both Yoruba and English productions, accused the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) of neglecting struggling actors, arguing that the association tends to recognise only wealthy members.
Ojoge also shared a personal loss, revealing that he recently lost a child. He alleged that TAMPAN failed to acknowledge his tragedy, unlike the public recognition given to colleague Peju Ogunmola.
“I lost my child before Peju Ogunmola lost hers, but TAMPAN did not post mine. They only posted Peju’s because I don’t have money. If you are broke, the industry will not recognize you,” he lamented.
A local TAMPAN chairman in Shomolu reportedly criticised the association’s selective approach, calling it unfair and insensitive. “The job only recognises those that are rich, not those that are poor,” Ojoge added.
Pa Ojoge’s acting career began in the 1970s, and he became a household name for his humorous performances. He has appeared in numerous films and television series, including the popular sitcom Face2Face.
His disclosure has renewed conversations about the welfare of veteran actors in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, raising questions about support systems for older performers who helped shape Nollywood.
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