Tony Ogaga
Voluptuous actress and comedienne, Mojisola Oyetayo aka Mama Ajasco, has just been elected the chairman of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lagos State chapter.
As the first female to lead the association, the actress opens up on her plans moving forward. She also talks about her challenges as a plus size entertainer, how she handles body shaming as well as her ideal man. Enjoy it.
Recently, you emerged as the chairman of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lagos State chapter, how do you feel?
I feel honoured that I am the first female and first indigene to emerge as chairman of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter. I feel greatly honoured and I think there is a lot I could contribute through my talent.
Now that you are chairman, what are your plans for the union?
This is really an exciting time for me. As chairman, I intend to pursue job creation, which is a key programme in the guild, with a special focus for up-and-coming actors and the elderly ones. I am in partnership with some productions firms that will reel out soaps (operas) and movies just for guild members to be actively featured. I also intend to create social fora whereby A-list actors can bond with younger practitioners and impact them with their knowledge and skills.
I equally intend to retain the Nollywood Joggers Club that has helped to bond guild members every Saturday, and then add one or two more clubs for our wellness and interactions, as well as evolve a working and accessible health insurance scheme. We will organise seminars, workshops and trainings that will be aimed at the development of guild members while also enhancing their ability to financially harness their talent.
For a decade, you’ve been acting the role of Mama Ajasco in the popular comedy series, Papa Ajasco. What has the experience been like?
It has been quite exciting, I must confess. I am not just a comic actor; I also play other roles including gangster to sugar mummy and headmistress. I also act evil step-mum roles. It all depends on the script, so you wouldn’t be far from the truth if you describe me as versatile.
How did you get the Mama Ajasco role?
I have been playing the comic character in Papa Ajasco for a decade now. I remember vividly that I joined the cast after I heard there was an opening for the role. And I went for a closed audition and got selected. And Bingo, that was it! However, in real life, I appear way younger; so when people see me they are usually shocked, because they are always expecting an elderly person (laughter).
Tell us about growing up?
Growing up was fun and strict. I am from a Christian home and a very comfortable family. I’m supposed to be a pampered child but I have ‘rebirthed’ myself to be Ajepako (laughter). My parents aren’t comedians but they do have a lot of humour in them. So, my talents are in-born. I think my talent is from my parents. They were not comedians but they sure had a lot of humour running in their veins (laughter).
Have you ever experienced body shaming on account of your big size?
My size is unique, but I must confess, sometimes it could be restrictive. I have experienced body shaming and it is a terrible past time for those who engage in it. But I’ll advice them to desist at once. However, I believe those who engage in it definitely have low self-esteem because low self-esteem is not for people like me. As you can see, I brim with confidence and proud of who am I.
Growing up, who were your role models?
Hmmm… my role model while growing up? That should be Oprah Winfrey. And that is because she is exceptional, has a lot of business acumen and knows her onions. I am really proud of her.
Are you open to marriage again after your divorce?
This part of my life is very private.
What is life like as a single mum?
I don’t want to talk about my personal life. I always try to draw a line between my job and my family, and I want it to remain that way.
You’re voluptuous and pretty, how often do men hit on you?
You see, men will always be men, so you can guess that it is quite often but I am too disciplined. I want to remain focused on my career and family.
So, what would you say is your beauty spot?
My beauty spot? That should be my smile.
What turns you off?
Fake people and liars turn me off like mad.
Could you describe your ideal man?
My ideal man must be down to earth, truthful, hardworking, respectful and ready to give me loads of attention. I am not looking for a super hero or someone who ‘forms’ holy (laughter).
Have you ever been a victim of sexual harassment?
No, I don’t even know about it.
How do you relax?
I am 100 per cent fun loving woman. When I want to relax, I go for karaoke with my friends. I also go swimming, but abeg, no look my a** (laughter). I love reading novels and I am a game freak.
What has been your happiest moment?
Everyday I wake up to see a new day is a happy moment for me.
What are your dreams?
To have my talk show and to be in a position to empower women; yeah, that is my drea