Investigation of the water Quality of Selected Boreholes in Ekpoma

ABSTRACT: Groundwater serves as the primary source of drinking water for many residents of Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria. This study assessed the quality of water from selected boreholes by comparing physicochemical parameters with the standards of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). Water samples were collected and analyzed for pH, temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and total hardness. Descriptive statistics, graphical analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis were used to evaluate the results. Findings revealed variations in water quality among the sampled boreholes. Most parameters were within the permissible limits of WHO and NSDWQ standards; however, elevated turbidity was observed in Borehole C, indicating possible contamination. Correlation analysis showed significant relationships among some parameters, suggesting common sources of influence on groundwater quality. The study recommends regular monitoring, improved borehole protection, and appropriate water treatment measures to ensure safe and sustainable groundwater use in Ekpoma. Keywords: Borehole water quality, groundwater, physicochemical parameters, WHO standards, NSDWQ, Ekpoma.