Paystack co-founder Ezra Olubi was suspended following sexual misconduct allegations, prompting calls from CACOL for a police investigation while the company conducts a formal probe.
According to a report from Saturday PUNCH, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has called on the police to investigate sexual misconduct allegations against Paystack co-founder Ezra Olubi, following his suspension by the Nigerian payments company.
The suspension, announced on Friday, followed claims of sexual misconduct involving a subordinate, sparking public outrage.
The controversy reportedly began after a woman who previously had a relationship with Olubi aired grievances online. This prompted scrutiny of old tweets allegedly linked to him from 2009 and 2013, some of which contained sexually suggestive remarks involving colleagues and minors.
Some resurfaced posts included: “I judge my female friends by the sound of their pee make. Thanks to the audio in my bathroom,” and “Save water. Take a bath with your neighbour’s daughter.” Olubi has since deactivated his X account.
Paystack confirmed the suspension, stating in a report to TechCabal: “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,” emphasizing that involvement with minors constitutes a criminal offence. “A minor is not capable of seducing an adult who is conscious of his integrity. So basically, that is a criminal offence that the police should step in and deal with,” he said. Adeniran also faulted any delay by the company in notifying authorities.
The allegations have generated a wave of public reaction, with social media users criticizing Olubi’s conduct and questioning the scrutiny applied before he received a 2022 national honour.
The matter remains under formal investigation.