The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has stated that its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kofi Kodua Sarpong, was not part of a search committee tasked to get suitable offices and accommodation for the company in Sekondi-Takoradi.

The state’s oil management company said after the offer by Global Haulage Company Limited (GHCL) was selected, Dr Sarpong recused himself from “the Board Committee’s work and discussions relating to the approval for the purchase of the property”.

There has been an allegation of conflict of interest leveled against Dr Sarpong as he has worked for GHCL in the past.

Property of GHCL were bought by the Corporation – in procurement – at the cost of $7.5 million as part of moving operations to the Western Region.

“It must be re-emphasised that due processes were followed at all times during the purchase of the property,” the statement by GNPC on Wednesday said.

“There was no conflict of interest as is being alleged.”

It clarified that Dr Sarpong declared his interest as regards his past association with GHCL and recused himself from discussions accordingly.

“It is on record that prior to joining GNPC in January 2017, Dr Sarpong, the Chief Executive, had terminated all official association with the Global Haulage Group and its related companies in November, 2016.”

It explained that Dr Sarpong intervened, however, for payment to be made to GHCL although the lawyer who had custody of the sale and purchase agreement had taken a vacation.

The final payment in three installments was made on January 12, 2018, according to the statement.

“Eventually the agreement which were in the custody of the lawyer were submitted to Internal Audit Department and this enabled them to complete a post-audit without any adverse findings.”

GNPC assured the public that its finances are “being prudently managed”.