Paystack, one of Africa’s biggest tech companies, has suspended its co-founder and chief technology officer, Ezra Olubi, after allegations of sexual misconduct involving a subordinate appeared online. The claims, first shared on social media this week, have also brought back attention to old tweets by Olubi containing sexually explicit comments about colleagues and minors.
What exactly happened?
Paystack confirmed the suspension and said it has launched a formal investigation. “We take matters of this nature seriously,” the company said. “Effective immediately, Ezra has been suspended from all duties and responsibilities pending the outcome of a formal investigation. Out of respect for the individuals involved and to protect the integrity of the process, we will not comment further until the investigation is complete.”
The allegations and the resurfacing of old posts have sparked wider scrutiny. Paystack, which became one of Y Combinator’s earliest African startups and was later acquired by Stripe for $200 million in 2020, provides payment solutions for thousands of businesses across Africa. This makes any internal misconduct a sensitive issue for customers, employees, and regulators alike.
Who is Ezra Olubi?
Olubi, a software engineer known in Nigeria for his bold style and support for LGBTQ rights, co-founded Paystack in 2015 with Shola Akinlade. After studying computer engineering at Babcock University, he helped build software that enabled merchants to accept payments online, fueling the growth of e-commerce in West Africa.
The resurfaced posts on X, along with accounts from people claiming to have worked with him, have increased pressure on Paystack to act transparently. Social media users have called on the company to clarify workplace policies and explain how it plans to ensure staff safety and proper reporting procedures.
Given Paystack’s prominence and its connection to Stripe, the investigation is expected to attract attention from the broader tech industry. The case raises questions about leadership standards in fast-growing startups, how internal complaints are handled, and what employees can expect regarding accountability and workplace safety.
