By Bisi Bamishe
The attention of the National Pension Commission (PenCom or Commission) has been drawn to the illicit activities of the Association of Pension Desk Practitioners of Nigeria (ASSOPEP).
According to a press statement signed by the management of PenCom, the Commission said that it has particularly noted ASSOPEP’s claims of resolving pension issues and assisting retirees in securing their retirement benefits.
It reads, “The general public is kindly requested to note that the claims by ASSOPEP are entirely false as the Association has no affiliation with the pension industry nor authorization of any kind whatsoever from PenCom. Moreover, Licensed Pension Fund Operators (LPFOs), who are statutorily mandated to undertake the processing and payment of retirement benefits, are not associated with ASSOPEP in any way.”
PenCom, therefore, urged the general public to be cautious of any promise or claim made by ASSOPEP regarding pension and retirement benefits or any other matter relating to the pension industry in Nigeria.
The Commission especially strongly advised workers, retirees, pension desk officers and everyone approached by the Association with claims of consulting with their Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and PenCom for guidance and assistance in respect of their retirement benefits to exercise caution as any interaction with the Association is at the individual’s own risk.
PenCom has, in the meantime, reported the activities of ASSOPEP to law enforcement agencies for appropriate action.
