The recent resignation of Jerry Kofi Hinson, Managing Director of Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), has stirred up a wave of controversy within the oil and gas industry. Hinson, a former Executive Director of Minecom responsible for the oil and gas business unit, tendered his resignation letter to the refinery’s board of directors on August 11, 2023.
Appointed as TOR’s Managing Director in March 2022, Hinson took on the role as the fourth MD under President Akufo-Addo’s administration. His appointment followed the dismissal of former Managing Director Francis Boateng and Deputy Ato Morrison in June 2021.
While unofficial sources suggest internal power dynamics played a role in Hinson’s departure, rumors abound regarding vested interests in TOR’s revitalization process. Allegedly, there’s an ongoing power struggle among undisclosed entities vying for stakes in the refinery’s rejuvenation.
Before his appointment, a three-member Interim Management Committee (IMC) was established by Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh to oversee TOR’s operations following the previous MD and deputy’s removal.
Hinson, boasting over 25 years of experience from his tenure at major Oil and Gas Company Royal Dutch Shell, had been tasked with global asset development and hydrocarbon resource management. Citing health reasons, he stepped down from his position.
Dr. Kofi Amoa-Abban, speaking on behalf of the TOR board, expressed gratitude for Hinson’s service and extended well-wishes for his future endeavors.
In the interim, Ernest Owusu-Sekyere, TOR’s Deputy Managing Director with over 15 years of industry experience, has been appointed to serve as acting MD. This appointment aims to provide leadership during the transition period.
As the industry awaits an official statement from TOR regarding Hinson’s resignation, the turmoil surrounding his departure raises questions about the refinery’s direction and the complexities within the oil and gas sector.
Source : YEN NEWS