Chemophysical and Metallic Characterization of Surface Water and Precipitation for Environmental Quality Assessment in Oyigbo L.G.A., Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the repercussions of oil industry operations on environmental quality in the Niger Delta, with a specific focus on atmospheric soot contamination. By conducting chemophysical and metallic characterization of surface water (river) and precipitation (rain) in Oyigbo, Rivers State, Nigeria, the research evaluates various chemical and physical parameters, like pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, as well as concentrations of heavy metals like lead (Pb), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn). The findings uncover a slightly acidic to neutral pH in water samples. The elevated EC in the Imo River, while meeting WHO standards, highlights the delicate balance between industrial development and environmental health. Turbidity values, meeting WHO standards but exceeding limits in some rainwater samples, prompt scrutiny of anthropogenic influences, with fishing and sand mining emerging as potential contributors to river turbidity, while TSS values, though higher along the Imo River, remain within WHO standards. Results reveal Cd, Cu, and Zn adhere to standards, while the elevated Pb levels necessitate further exploration into contamination sources. The heavy metals pollution index (HPI) categorizes the area as polluted and identifies lead as the primary contributor, underlining the urgency of interventions. The potential ecological risks index (PERI) classifies the pollution risk as slight, indicating a low ecological risk level, and reveals risk hierarchies, in the order of metals contributing to pollution as Pb > Cu > Cd > Zn for both river and rainwater. This study unravels the relationship between industrial activities and water quality in Oyigbo, contributing substantively to sustainable water resources and environmental management. The detailed findings stand as a cornerstone for informed decision-making, aiming to mitigate environmental impacts and safeguard ecosystems and communities reliant on vital water sources.