World Bank assisted National Agricultural Research Project (NARP) - University of Port Harcourt
Abstract
Fifteen (15) water samples were collected from boreholes, pond water
and rivers located at different points in Aguobiri Community in
Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The samples were
then analysed for physico-chemical parameters, bacteriological
(coliform), heavy metals and Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon Content (TPC)
in order to determine their concentrations in the rivers, ponds and
borehole water.Results obtained from the analysis were compared with
standards of Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), Department of
Petroleum Resources (DPR) and Federal Environmental Protection Agency
(FEPA). The results indicate that Pb2+, TPC, Cd2+, Fe2+, coliform,
hardness and Ni2+ are above the recommended value for any drinking
water in some locations. However, pH, TDS, TSS, Mg2+, Na+, Ca2+, K+,
SO42-, PO43-, Cu2+, Zn2+, Cr2+ and Cl- values are within the
permissible limit. But most of the heavy metals and TPC exceeded the
threshold value. Consequently there is need for a holistic and
sustainable monitoring and treatment of water before drinking in the
area, particularly the river water. Public health appears to be
threatened in the area as the water is unsafe, not potable as toxic
substances may be absorbed through oral ingestion which then
bio-accumulate in the tissues of man