Video: Rick Ross – Hold Me Back (Nigeria).....What Rick Ross’ “Hold me back” video tells the world about Nigerians

American rapper, Rick Ross recently shot a video for his song, “Hold me Back” in Nigeria. The video depicts Lagosians in the poorest parts of town and depicts the struggles of street life and living in Lagos’ slums. The video begins with commentary about the Biafra war and segues into various shots of poor men, women and children. While it appears Rick Ross wanted to depict “real life” in Lagos and the everyday lives of the average Nigerian, the rapper has since come under attack for what many perceive to be poverty porn – an ill conceived attempt to connect with the common man but that is really an act of condescension.

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Given his influence, many are worried that his video gives a bad depiction of Nigeria to people abroad – presenting it as a backward, uncivilised and poverty striken country. In their opinion, such depictions do little to encourage tourism or investment into the country for that matter.

American rapper, Rick Ross recently shot a video for his song, “Hold me Back” in Nigeria. The video depicts Lagosians in the poorest parts of town and depicts the struggles of street life and living in Lagos’ slums. Watch the video and share your thoughts..