Paystack has suspended its Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Ezra Olubi, after allegations of sexual misconduct and a wave of resurfaced tweets triggered widespread public criticism. The company announced the suspension late Thursday and confirmed that a formal investigation has begun.
How the Allegations Started
The controversy erupted on 12 November when a former partner of Olubi, Max Obae (@makispoke), shared a detailed account online, accusing him of manipulative behaviour and inappropriate conduct involving a junior colleague. The post quickly gained traction and prompted broader scrutiny of Olubi’s past actions.
Shortly afterwards, old tweets from more than a decade ago began circulating widely. The tweets included sexual jokes, inappropriate comments about minors, and remarks encouraging misconduct in professional settings. One of the tweets referenced touching a coworker “inappropriately,” raising serious questions about workplace boundaries and behaviour.
The resurfacing of these posts intensified the backlash and added to concerns about whether Olubi’s digital behaviour aligned with his leadership role at a major African fintech company.
Paystack’s Official Position
In response to the mounting public pressure, Paystack announced that Olubi had been suspended from all responsibilities pending a thorough review. The company stated that the investigation will be led by an independent third party and overseen directly by the Board. Paystack emphasised that it would not make further public comments until the investigation is completed to protect its integrity.
Reaction Across the Tech Community
The situation has triggered strong reactions across Nigeria’s technology and startup ecosystem. Many industry professionals have called for stronger internal controls, clearer reporting channels, and better protection for employees—especially in organisations with influential founders.
Others have noted that the controversial tweets, although old, reflect deeper issues about attitudes toward colleagues, power dynamics, and workplace culture. The incident has reignited discussions about leadership accountability, online behaviour, and the long-term impact of digital footprints.
Where Things Stand Now
As of now, Ezra Olubi has not publicly responded to the allegations. His social-media accounts remain inactive, and there has been no announcement of law-enforcement involvement. The outcome of Paystack’s internal investigation will determine whether he returns to the company or faces further disciplinary measures.
Broader Implications for the Fintech Sector
The suspension marks a pivotal moment for the African fintech community, highlighting the need for transparent governance and robust safeguarding practices within high-growth startups. With the spotlight now on leadership conduct and corporate responsibility, this case may set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future.
