HYDROGEOCHEMICAL, CONTAMINATION AND PROBABILISTIC ECOLOGICAL AND HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENTS OF HEAVY METALS IN WATER IN OWO METROPOLIS, SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

 Popoola, O.J., Adeseko, A.A., Sebastine, L.A. and Owolabi, R.R.

Hydrogeochemical, Contamination and Probabilistic Ecological and Health Risk Assessments of Heavy Metals in Water in Owo Metropolis, Southwest Nigeria. Earth Sciences Pakistan, 8(1): 28-46

DOI: http://doi.org/10.26480/esp.01.2024.28.46

This study focuses on assessing the water quality and heavy metal contamination in surface and groundwater in the Owo metropolis. Water, a vital resource for human existence and ecosystem maintenance, plays a crucial role in various activities. The research emphasises the significance of water quality in preventing waterborne illnesses, particularly in areas lacking proper sanitation. The physicochemical characteristics of surface and groundwater were analysed, revealing parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride (Cl), sulphate (SO4), bicarbonate (HCO3), and concentrations of various metals. The results indicate that the studied parameters generally fall below the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Nigerian guidelines, suggesting a lower risk to public health. Cluster analysis revealed associations between water samples, linking certain clusters to anthropogenic activities like dumpsites, farming, and households. Correlation analysis demonstrated relationships between different hydrochemical parameters, highlighting potential sources of major ions. Geochemical assessments, illustrated through Piper and Gibbs diagrams, indicated the dominance of Ca-Cl water types and the influence of rock weathering on water composition. Bivariate plots and ion exchange processes provided insights into water-rock interactions. The study also evaluated ecological risks and water quality indices, revealing potential risks from heavy metals. Hazard and cancer risk assessments suggested the cumulative potential of heavy metals to pose health risks, particularly for children. The research emphasises the need for urgent interventions to address water quality issues in the Owo metropolis.

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