Paystack Suspends CTO Ezra Olubi: Here’s Why

Paystack, one of Africa’s leading fintech companies, has suspended its co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Ezra Olubi, following the circulation of disturbing old tweets and a separate allegation of sexual misconduct reported internally. The situation has created a major PR crisis for one of the continent’s most celebrated tech success stories.

The controversy escalated after a user on X (formerly Twitter) published a viral thread highlighting graphic and troubling tweets attributed to Olubi from as far back as 2013 and 2015. The resurfaced posts contained explicit sexual references and comments that many found deeply inappropriate.

Reports from media outlets, including Sahara Reporters, Peoples Gazette, and Vanguard, noted that some of the tweets referenced minors and animals, sparking widespread shock.

The online reaction was immediate. Hashtags such as #Paystack and #EzraOlubi began trending as millions questioned how a top executive at one of Africa’s most reputable fintech firms could be linked to such content.

Screenshots circulating online also show Olubi allegedly making sexual comments about a coworker and a minor, further intensifying public anger.

The situation became more serious when TechCabal reported that the suspension was not only due to the old tweets. According to the publication, Paystack is also investigating a recent internal allegation of sexual misconduct involving a subordinate.

This means Paystack’s investigation includes two separate issues:

1. The verification and context of the old resurfaced tweets

2. A more recent internal complaint of sexual misconduct

The combination of these allegations has placed enormous pressure on the company and its leadership.

On November 14, 2025, Paystack released an official statement confirming the immediate suspension of Olubi. The company emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for misconduct and promised a thorough investigation.

With Paystack now operating under Stripe after the US payments giant acquired it in 2020 for over 200 million dollars, the handling of this case is being closely watched. Stripe’s involvement adds global attention — and scrutiny — to the situation.

Who Is Ezra Olubi?

Ezra Olubi is widely known in Nigeria’s tech and corporate circles not only for his technical expertise but also for his bold, gender-nonconforming fashion style. His brightly coloured hair, striking makeup, and heels have made him a unique figure in Africa’s conservative business space.
This distinctive public image — admired by some, criticised by others — makes the allegations even more controversial and divisive.

Paystack is considered one of Africa’s biggest fintech success stories. Since its launch in 2015, the company has:

• Enabled African businesses to accept online payments easily

• Played a foundational role in Nigeria’s digital economy

• Expanded across Africa

• Achieved a major milestone when Stripe acquired it in 2020

Because of Paystack’s reputation, its association with any misconduct has wide implications for African startups, global investors, and the broader fintech ecosystem.

What Happens Next?

1. The Investigation

Paystack and Stripe will conduct a full investigation into the authenticity of the old tweets and the separate internal misconduct allegation. The findings will determine Olubi’s future at the company.

2. Olubi’s Response

So far, Ezra Olubi has not issued any public statement. Whether he denies the tweets, apologises, or claims hacking will significantly influence public opinion.

3. Corporate Accountability

The case raises important questions about workplace culture and leadership ethics in Africa’s fast-growing tech sector. Paystack must handle external backlash while maintaining trust internally.

4. Impact on Stripe

Stripe now faces the challenge of managing a sensitive issue involving one of its most successful African subsidiaries. The company’s approach will set an important precedent for how global tech firms handle regional controversies.

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The African tech ecosystem is watching closely. Paystack, once known for groundbreaking innovation and a landmark billion-dollar valuation, now finds itself navigating one of the biggest scandals in its history.
With public sentiment shifting rapidly, the next moves by Paystack, Stripe, and Olubi will shape the company’s reputation — and may influence how investors view corporate governance across African startups.