Preliminary assessment of a degraded river in the Niger Delta, Nigeria using physico-chemical characteristics and water quality index

Abstract

Surface water degradation is increasingly becoming a national issue in Nigeria as it affects the suitability of water for its various uses. The preliminary study of the physicochemical parameters and water quality index of the Orogodo River was conducted to ascertain the extent of degradation from multiple sources of contamination. Water samples were collected from four sites that were impacted by various anthropogenic activities along the Orogodo River in Delta State during the months of February (number of samples = 16) and September (number of samples = 16) 2020. The water samples were analyzed using standard methods. The results of the physicochemical analysis using ANOVA showed significant differences (P<0.05) only in biochemical oxygen demand and turbidity across the four sites. The biochemical oxygen demand (3.05±2.47) and turbidity (8.35±5.162) at site 3 espectively that is a major abattoir discharge point were above the Nigeria Standard for Drinking Water Quality acceptable limits for drinking water and could portend harm to water users and ecosystem integrity. The water quality index analysis revealed that sites 1 and 4 showed good water quality and those of sites 2 and 3 showed poor water quality. The study demonstrated that water quality index analysis and physicochemical characteristics were critical factors in evaluating the deteriorating conditions of the Orogodo River. Periodic monitoring of the river quality and integrity is vital as the river water will require extensive treatment for safe usage.