Distribution of Heavy Metals in Surface and Ground Water in Mkpuma Akpatakpa and Environs

Abstract

The inhabitants of Mkpuma Akpatakpa have resorted to the usage of water accumulated in the abandoned mine ponds and boreholes due to inadequate potable water within the area. Lead Zinc deposit which is typical of the Benue Trough has been mined within the area, leaving heaps of mine tailings at the site. A total of seven (7) water samples were collected and geochemically analyzed with the main objective of assessing their distribution in the waters of the study area. The results revealed the concentration of Arsenic to be high in both surface and groundwater ranging from 0.1 to 0.492mg/l. which exceeds the WHO limit for portable water. Constant exposure to Potentially Harmful Elements (PHEs) such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), zinc (Zn), and arsenic (As) have shown to have cumulative effects on human health since there is no homeostatic mechanism which can operate to regulate their toxicity. Heavy metals are released into the environment by natural and anthropogenic processes and these increase their concentration, hence leading to pollution. As the populace continues to be exposed to such hazardous element in their drinking water, the health implication could be prevalent overtime if not arrested.