Physicochemical and Metal Characterisation: Impact Assessment of Badagry Creek on Groundwater Quality in Ojo Community, Ojo, Lagos State

Anko, Senami O., Majolagbe, Abdulrafiu O., Onwordi, Chionyedua T., Adejare, Adeniyi A.

Department of Chemistry, Lagos State University, Lagos State, Nigeria.

Introduction

Groundwater is water present beneath the Earth’s surface, and it represents about 30% of the world’s fresh water [1]. Various factors for the preference of groundwater over surface water include convenient availability of source close to where water is required; its excellent natural quality which is adequate for potable need with little or no treatment; and relatively low capital cost of its development. Groundwater is also less vulnerable to pollution than surface water. Hence, it is preferable for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes [2].

Groundwater can gather in cracks in subsurface rocks, and in between soil surfaces, which serve as a filter. Therefore, water from aquifers can be abstracted using a water well [2]. However, there is a potential for contamination by toxic compounds, including spilled petroleum products, applications of chemicals and fertilizers, leachates and some microbial contamination [3].

Groundwater is also susceptible to saltwater intrusion in coastal areas, which leads to degradation in groundwater quality. Saltwater intrusion is the movement of saline water (from the sea) into freshwater aquifers. It is majorly caused by excess withdrawal of groundwater from wells, construction of navigation channels or oil field canals, and sea level changes [4]. Some impacts of saltwater intrusion on groundwater are loss of freshwater vegetation, spread of mudflats on formerly vegetative areas, poor quality of water for drinking and domestic uses, which could lead to chronic diseases, and possibly, death of humans and animals [5].

Aim

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of Badagry creek on groundwater quality in Ojo Community, Ojo, Lagos State.

Objectives