Self-Styled NUP “EU Ambassador” Dr Nico Arrested in The Hague Over Unauthorized ICC Protest

The Hague, Netherlands — A self-styled “European Union Ambassador” of Uganda’s National Unity Platform (NUP), Dr Nico, who operates online under the alias @klup, was arrested on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in The Hague after attempting to stage an unauthorised protest near the premises of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Dutch authorities have confirmed.

Dr Nico announced the arrest himself on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), claiming it was his seventh arrest in The Hague and accusing the ICC of hostility toward demonstrations.

Dutch police, however, said the protest was unlawful and disruptive, noting that demonstrations around the ICC are subject to strict permit requirements due to security sensitivities surrounding the court and its officials.

Authorities intervened after Dr Nico reportedly attempted to stage the protest without the required authorisation, prompting officers to detain him at the scene before escorting him away for processing. No injuries were reported.

Controversy

In recent months, Dr Nico has emerged as a vocal online activist.

Ugandan officials have accused him of frequently posting unverified allegations and inflammatory claims about the country and its institutions, particularly targeting the government and security agencies.

His commentary, often circulated across X and other platforms, has drawn criticism from political analysts and members of the Ugandan diaspora, who accuse him of spreading misinformation and hate-laden rhetoric under the banner of political activism.

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NUP has not formally acknowledged Dr Nico as an official representative or diplomat, and party officials have previously distanced themselves from individuals who claim informal overseas titles without institutional backing.

The images online show Dutch police officers in uniform physically escorting Dr Nico on a public street in The Hague.

An officer is seen holding Dr Nico by the arm as he appears to question or protest the arrest.

Dr Nico is dressed in a blue suit and light-coloured shirt, holding what appears to be a mobile phone in one hand.

Under Dutch law, public demonstrations, particularly around high-security international institutions, require prior approval from local authorities. Failure to comply can result in detention or arrest, even where protests are non-violent.

As of publication, Dutch police had not indicated whether Dr Nico would face formal charges or be released without prosecution.