AN ASSESSMENT OF GROSS ORGANIC POLLUTION OF OGUNPA RIVER, IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Gross organic pollution in water samples from Ogunpa River in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria was investigated to access the quality status of the river. This study was carried out between June and August 2010 to investigate the degree of organic pollution of the river using Parameters such as Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) 5 Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Permanganate Value (PV). A total of thirty one samples were analyzed along the water link, upstream to the point where Ogunpa River discharges into Ona River. The values of DO, BOD5, COD and PV (mg/L) ranged between 0.17-3.89, 16-544, 326-740 and 11.3-32.4 (mg/L)) respectively. The mean values were 1.76±0.82, 120.38±107.84, 492±94 and 24.52±4.38 (mg/L) respectively. A comparison of gross organic pollution in the respective samples and recommended International Standards such the Classical Prati Water Quality index scale showed that Ogunpa River is heavily polluted and therefore not suitable for domestic and industrial use. The high ratio of COD to BOD5 obtained in most of the samples is suggestive of a low proportion of biologically degradable matter as a constituent of organic pollution in the river. The results of the analysis suggest significant organic pollution which places Ogunpa River water quality in class V of the classical Prati Water Quality index scale. It is hoped that the result of this study will cause concern in Oyo State Government and other interest groups to reinforce comprehensive legislation awareness programs and to educate local villagers on the effects of environmental pollution to safeguard the River.

Author

Olafisoye, O. B. Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria