Stripe-owned Nigerian fintech giant, Paystack, has suspended its Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Ezra Olubi, following serious allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse involving subordinates.
The controversy erupted after Nigerians resurfaced old posts on social media following accusations from Olubi’s former partner, Max Obae (popularly known as Maki). Maki accused the tech executive of misogyny, manipulation, and sexual exploitation, claiming he ended their relationship with an email titled “Severance.”
She further alleged that Olubi falsely presented himself as gay to gain the trust of feminists, then used that access to subject women to degrading rituals, exploit them sexually, and exert control through financial dependence.
Paystack Confirms Suspension, Opens Inquiry
In a statement shared with TechCabal, Paystack confirmed Olubi’s suspension and disclosed that a formal investigation is underway.
“Paystack is aware of the allegations involving our Co-founder, Ezra Olubi. We take matters of this nature extremely seriously. Effective immediately, Ezra has been suspended from all duties and responsibilities pending the outcome of a formal investigation,”
the company said.
Paystack added it would refrain from further public comments “out of respect for the individuals involved” and to protect the integrity of the investigative process.
Old Explicit Tweets Resurface
The allegations triggered renewed scrutiny of dozens of decade-old tweets posted by Olubi between 2010 and 2017. Many of the resurfaced posts contained inappropriate and sexually explicit comments about colleagues, minors, and sexualised characters.
Examples include a May 23, 2011 tweet reading:
“Monday will be more fun with an ‘a’ in it. Touch a coworker today. Inappropriately.”
Another tweet from 2010 made offensive remarks involving minors, while a 2012 tweet referenced using an audio recorder in his bathroom to “judge” female friends.
Several tweets considered too explicit for public reproduction continued circulating widely online. Olubi deactivated his X account Thursday evening and has not publicly responded to the allegations or the resurfaced posts.
Tech Industry Faces Rising Scrutiny
The incident comes at a time when Africa’s tech ecosystem is increasingly reckoning with misconduct claims involving senior executives.
In October 2025, Oscar Limoke, CEO of Kenyan firm Pawa IT Solutions, was fined following sexual harassment and assault allegations that forced a staff member’s resignation.
The accusations against Olubi have reignited debates on accountability, leadership conduct, workplace power dynamics, and whether past online behaviour should influence current leadership assessments.
Paystack says it will make further disclosures only after concluding its investigation.