The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has called on the police to investigate the sexual-misconduct allegations made against Paystack co-founder Ezra Olubi, who was suspended by the company following public controversy.
The Stripe-owned Nigerian payments firm announced Olubi’s suspension on Friday after allegations involving a subordinate surfaced online.
The issue escalated after a woman who previously had a relationship with Olubi published personal grievances on Wednesday, drawing renewed attention to several old tweets attributed to him from 2009 to 2013.
The posts, some of which contained sexually suggestive comments involving colleagues and minors, intensified public debate about accountability and the long-term impact of online behaviour. Olubi has since deactivated his X account.
Among the resurfaced tweets were statements such as: “I judge my female friends by the sound their pee makes,” and “Save water. Take a bath with your neighbour’s daughter.” Another tweet from May 23, 2011 stated: “Monday will be more fun with an ‘a’ in it. Touch a coworker today. Inappropriately.”
TechCabal reported that Paystack had initiated a formal investigation.
In a statement, the company said “Paystack is aware of the allegations involving our co-founder, Ezra Olubi.
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 be commenting further until the investigation is complete.”
CACOL Executive Director Debo Adeniran told Saturday PUNCH that the allegations raise “serious moral and criminal concerns,” especially given the online reaction. He argued that individuals in executive positions must uphold high ethical standards and stressed that any misconduct involving minors would constitute a criminal offence.
“If it involves anyone under 18, the police should intervene immediately,” he said, adding that minors cannot legally be held responsible in such situations. He criticised any delay on the part of Paystack in reporting potential criminal elements to authorities.
Adeniran insisted on a thorough police investigation to establish facts and ensure accountability.
The unproven allegations sparked widespread discussion on Friday, with many X users commenting on the resurfaced tweets and broader concerns about personal conduct among public figures.
Presidential aide Gimba Kakanda reflected on societal tendencies to excuse unconventional behaviour in talented individuals, while other users questioned Olubi’s previous national honour and commented on perceived character flaws.
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