BASELINE ASSESSMENT OF HYDROCARBON CONTENT IN LEAVES OF ELAEIS GUINEENSIS AROUND A FLOW STATION IN OBAGI COMMUNITY, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Gas flaring remains a significant environmental issue in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, contributing to hydrocarbon pollution that affects air quality, soil health, vegetation, and human wellbeing. This study investigates the concentration of total hydrocarbon content (THC) in the leaves of Elaeis guineensis (oil palm) around a gas flare station in Obagi, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni LGA, Rivers State. Sampling was conducted across four directions (North, South, East, West) from the flare site and at a control location 1,200 meters away. Leaf samples were analyzed using a DR/890 colorimeter. In addition, a structured questionnaire was administered to assess community perceptions of gas flaring on crop productivity. Mean THC concentrations observed were: Control location (3.0600 kg/mg), South location (7.7367 kg/mg), West location (8.3967 kg/mg), North location (10.7767 kg/mg), and East location (8.3100 kg/mg). The mean THC concentration around the flow station was significantly higher than at the control location (p<0.05). The concentration at the North location (10.7767 kg/mg) was significantly higher than at the other study locations, indicating an increase in hydrocarbon concentration along the prevailing wind direction. No significant differences were observed among the South, West, and East locations. This finding aligns with meteorological dispersion patterns and community responses. The result suggest that gas flares are a major contributor to hydrocarbon deposition in Elaeis guineensis leaves in the study area. Consequently, agricultural activities should be discouraged near flow stations in Obagi Community.