COMPARATIVE PHYSICO- CHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF SOME SELECTED WATER BODIES IN WARRI AND ITS ENVIRONMENT

This study aimed to assess the physicochemical parameters and the degree of water degradation in selected water bodies in Warri and its environment. The water samples were collected from four strategic locations (DSC Aladja, NPA, NNPC Terminal, and Ekpan) and labeled A, B, C, and D, respectively. The samples were analyzed for physico-chemical parameters using standard analytical techniques, including an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) in accordance with regulatory standards. Key findings revealed elevated concentrations of Turbidity (82 – 135 NTU), COD (153.55 – 260.50 mg/L), BOD (24.10 – 35.00 mg/L), and DO (2.80 – 5.40 mg/L). The results for the heavy metals Lead (Pb) and iron (Fe) are 0.00 ± 0.50 mg/L and 1.003 ± 1.951 mg/L, respectively. Comparison of results with FMENV and NUPRC standards indicates that key parameters such as BOD, COD, Oil and grease for sample C, and turbidity are at high concentrations, indicating a high pollution load in the Warri River. High ammonia concentrations further suggest potential harm to aquatic life. Also, the high concentration of oil and grease at the NNPC terminal, due to oil loading and spills, causes the oil film to coat and destroy algae and other plankton. Therefore, the river water is not fit for consumption or swimming, especially at the NNPC terminal sites, due to its severely high impurity levels compared to other sites, and is thus highly degraded.