Exploring the Levels of Heavy Metals in Soil: A Case Study of Ahoada West Local Government Area in Rivers State, Nigeria

Background: Heavy metal-polluted soils are becoming more widespread around the world, as geologic and anthropogenic activity grow. The risk of soil contamination by metals increases drastically with increasing industrialization, urbanization, and oil spillage. Thus, it is necessary to monitor heavy metals concentration in agricultural areas because they can pose serious risks to human health and the environment. Objectives: the objective of the study was to investigate heavy metals concentration (lead, cadmium, chromium and iron) in soils of Ahoada West Local Government Area, specifically Akinima, Oruama, and Joinkrama 4. Methods: Soil samples were collected from three places at varying depths (0-5, 0-10, and 0-15 cm). Concentrations of heavy metals were quantified using a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. ANOVA was employed to ascertain significant differences in heavy metal concentrations at p<0.05 (IBM SPSS, 21 version). Results: Results indicated that the concentrations (ppm) of lead (1.44-13.99), chromium (5.23-23.57), cadmium (0.22-2.28), and iron (3.92-13.36) were below the WHO limits. Also, it was observed that heavy metal concentrations increased with increasing soil depths, in the following order 0-15 > 0-10 > 0-5 cm. In terms of spatial distribution, Oruama had significantly higher heavy metal concentrations, followed by Joinkrama 4, and Akinima, with the exception of chromium, which was significantly higher in Joinkrama 4 (8.00; 17.29) in comparison with Oruama (7.30; 15.34), and Akinima (5.23; 12.43) for 0-5 and 0-10 cm respectively. Conclusion: The study concludes that Oruama community generally had significantly higher levels of heavy metals, although the analyzed soil samples were below WHO permissible limits. This study, advances the understanding of heavy metal dynamics in soil health and agricultural sustainability in Ahoada West, by providing localized information on concentrations relative to depth of soil and locations. It emphasizes the need for regular monitoring to avoid possible pollution and bioaccumulation.