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ABSTRACT
In Benin City, Nigeria, the proliferation of automotive mechanic workshops (AMWs) due to the rise in imported "Tokunbo" cars has led to hazardous waste disposal practices. These workshops, primarily located near spare parts markets, release heavy metals and other pollutants into the soil, posing significant environmental and health risks. The study aimed to assess soil contamination and associated health risks in the automobile spare parts area. The objectives were to evaluate heavy metal concentrations in the soil, correlate heavy metals with health risks using a questionnaire survey, and establish the relationship between heavy metal abundance and soil pH. The study area included Uwelu and Evbareke spare parts markets in Benin City. Soil analysis revealed that the soil was generally acidic, with pH values ranging from 3.50 to 5.98. Electrical conductivity levels varied significantly, with the highest value recorded at the Uwelu control site. Organic carbon and organic matter content were relatively low in all samples. Heavy metal analysis indicated elevated levels of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in some areas, although they generally remained below international permissible limits. Notably, Pb concentrations were relatively high in certain locations. This study highlights the presence of heavy metals in soil near automobile spare parts markets in Benin City, emphasizing the need for environmental management measures to mitigate potential health risks to mechanics and local residents.
