ABSTRACT
The dependence on surface water for domestic and drinking purposes is a result of scarcity of potable water. Surface water is easily polluted through the discharge of effluent and disposal of solid waste. The investigation of the physical, chemical, and microbial characteristics of water is crucial for public health. The study used the National Sanitation Foundation Water Quality Index (NSFWQI) protocol to assess the quality status of the Ikpoba River water. Nine physicochemical and microbial parameters were analysed for NSFWQI evaluation following standard procedures. These include Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), nitrate (NO3), total phosphate (PO4), temperature, turbidity, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, and total coliforms. The NSFWQI values for the samples were within the range of 35.97 to 50.59, which falls within the bad and medium ratings; the overall water quality of the river is bad. The values for BOD, TDS, total coliform, and turbidity are higher than those of national and international regulatory agencies. The pollution of the river is a result of effluent release from activities like car-washing, washing of rugs, abattoirs, laundry services, restaurants, household-generated wastewater, vehicle-servicing workshops, and effluents from industries. The water from the Ikpoba River is unfit for drinking and domestic use, it requires prior treatment before use. Effluents released into the river should be treated to minimum standards set by government regulatory agencies, and disposal of solid wastes and open defecation should be curbed.
