Integrated Assessment of Water Quality and Organic Pollutants in Iyiochi and Iyigbo Waters, Owerre-Ezukala, Anambra State during the Rainy Season

Abstract

Access to safe water remains a significant concern in rural communities of Nigeria, where springs and streams serve as important sources of domestic water. During the rainy season, surface runoff and anthropogenic activities may increase water contamination. However, comparative information on the physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal contamination of Iyiochi spring and Iyigbo stream in Owerre-Ezukala, Anambra State, remains limited. This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal contamination of Iyiochi spring and Iyigbo stream waters in Iyiafor Village, Owerre-Ezukala, Anambra State, Nigeria, during the rainy season. Water samples were collected from both water bodies at different locations over three months (July–September 2025) and analyzed for physicochemical parameters, including pH, conductivity, temperature, turbidity, chloride, total dissolved solids, sulphate, phosphate, nitrate and hardness. Selected heavy metals were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry, while Pollution Index (PI) and Metal Index (MI) were employed to evaluate the degree of contamination and suitability of the water sources. Most physicochemical parameters were within WHO/USEPA permissible limits; however, turbidity exceeded the recommended limit of 5 NTU, with mean values of 18.77 NTU and 65.07 NTU for Iyiochi and Iyigbo, respectively. The mean Pollution Index values were 0.59–0.64 for Iyiochi, indicating acceptable pollution levels, compared with 1.20–2.66 for Iyigbo, indicating slight pollution. Heavy metal analysis revealed elevated concentrations of Pb, Fe, Cd, Al, Ni and Cr in both water bodies, with comparatively higher contamination in Iyigbo. Metal indices indicated high to severe contamination by Al and Cd throughout the sampling period and by Cr in the September Iyigbo sample. Overall, the findings indicate that neither water source was entirely suitable for direct domestic use without treatment, underscoring the need for regular monitoring and appropriate water treatment before consumption.