Some Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metals in Water from Oboshi River, Ibusa in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The current study assessed the physicochemical parameters and heavy metal composition of water samples from Oboshi River Ibusa in Delta State, Nigeria using standard methods. Results showed that the physicochemical parameters of the Oboshi River as follows: temperature (30.4º^C), pH (6.7), electrical conductivity (8.0ppm) and total dissolve solid (22.6μS/cm). Furthermore, the mean concentration of selected heavy metals detected in the water sample were (Cu = 0.16mg/L, Cr = 0.21mg/L, Pb =0.06mg/L, Zn =1.13mg/L, Mn =0.12mg/L, Fe =0.3mg/L and Cd =0.03mg/L). However, Pb, Cd and Mn were found to be above the permissible limit of World Health Organization. Meanwhile, the mean concentration of Fe was observed to be the same as the minimum permissible limit of WHO. But the mean concentration of Cu, Zn, and Cr were recorded below the minimum permissible standard of WHO. Based on the observed results, it is recommended that Oboshi River be continuous monitored for water quality as it is an important pre-requisite for the prevention of potential health hazards to humans and other tropical levels. The government should consider limiting anthropogenic activities on Oboshi River, Ibusa in Delta State, Nigeria.