Ezra Olubi.
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In a dramatic turn for one of Africa’s leading fintech firms, Paystack has officially terminated its co-founder and CTO, Ezra Olubi, following a tidal wave of sexual misconduct allegations and resurfaced decade-old social media posts.
On November 14, 2025, Paystack suspended Olubi pending a formal investigation.
The suspension followed viral allegations of sexual misconduct involving a subordinate, as well as the re-emergence of tweets from 2009–2013. These resurfaced posts included highly explicit and disturbing content, jokes about minors, co-workers, and even animals.
On November 23, Olubi published a blog post claiming that he was fired before the investigation was completed, and that he was not given a meeting or hearing to respond to the company’s allegations.
Paystack, for its part, said in a statement that his termination was based on “significant negative reputational damage,” and that it acted in accordance with its contractual rights, adding that financial obligations to Olubi have been met.
The company emphasised that this decision is separate from an ongoing independent investigation being conducted by law firm Aluko & Oyebode, appointed by Paystack’s board.
Olubi’s legal team has announced it is reviewing the termination process to examine whether Paystack adhered to its own internal policies.
Corporate accountability in tech companies has long been a problem. This case spotlights how governance, reputational risk, and workplace conduct are becoming increasingly scrutinised in a high-growth tech ecosystem. As Paystack is now under Stripe, the parent company’s reputation may also be at stake.
This case also illustrates power dynamics within workplace relationships. The allegations, involving a senior executive and a subordinate, reignite debates around power imbalances in startup leadership, particularly in African corporate cultures where mentorship and hierarchy are closely intertwined.
Lastly, Olubi's apparent or alleged actions illustrate that digital footprints have consequences. The controversy is a stark reminder that past social media behaviour can have real-world implications years down the line. It also raises questions about how companies should weigh historical content in disciplinary proceedings.
As this case continues to play out, there is no doubt that Paystack’s decision to fire one of its founding figures marks a watershed moment for governance in African fintech.