Impact of Pit Toilets and Dumping Sites on the Quality of Borehole Water in Some Selected Sites in Potiskum Town, Yobe State

Groundwater is the main source of drinking water in Potiskum, Yobe State, Nigeria, but its quality is increasingly compromised by poor waste management.This study evaluated the effects of dumping sites and pit toilets on borehole water quality, with attention to seasonal variation.Eleven boreholes six near dumping sites and five near pit toilets were sampled in wet and dry seasons.Physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, and microbiological indicators were analyzed using standard procedures.Boreholes BH3 (dumping site) and PT2 (pit toilet) consistently exceeded WHO (2011) and NSDWQ (2007) limits for multiple parameters.Pb, Cd, Cr, Mn, and Ni were detected at concerning levels, accompanied by elevated electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, chloride, and biological oxygen demand.All samples recorded total coliform counts far above permissible limits.Seasonal analysis showed a significant variation in pH (p = 0.0218), with greater acidity in the dry season; other parameters, though not statistically significant, tended to be higher during this period, suggesting contaminant concentration under reduced aquifer recharge.Immediate action should deactivate highly contaminated boreholes, provide safe alternative water, and promote household treatment.Short-term measures must enforce sanitary setbacks, require hydrogeological assessments, and improve wellhead protection.Long-term solutions include sanitation upgrades, dumpsite relocation, and routine groundwater monitoring.