Heavy metal pollution of water around waste dumpsite in Ado-Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates heavy metal contamination in water sources near the Ilokun and Emirin dumpsites in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, revealing potential environmental and health risks. Water samples were collected from wells and boreholes around the dumpsites and a control site, then analyzed for arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results indicated elevated metal levels in well water near the dumpsites. The analysis of heavy metals showed that water from Ilokun and Emirin wells had higher contamination levels, with some exceeding WHO safety limits. In contrast, borehole water contained lower levels of these metals, mostly falling within safe limits. ANOVA results confirmed significant contamination differences across sites, particularly in borehole water (p = 0.0468) and well water (p = 0.0967). The findings conclude that well water near the dumpsites poses a substantial health risk due to high metal concentrations, while borehole water is comparatively safer. Improved waste management practices and continuous monitoring of water quality near dumpsites are recommended to protect public health and the environment.