Hydrogeochemical analysis and groundwater quality assessment of Ughelli South, Southern Nigeria

This study investigated the groundwater quality in Ughelli South, Southern Nigeria, and the factors that are affecting it. Fifty groundwater samples were collected from various wells and tested for physical, chemical, and heavy metal contents. The data were analyzed using various techniques such as descriptive statistics, correlation analysis (CA), principal component analysis (PCA), and hydrochemical characterization. Findings revealed that the study area’s groundwater was slightly acidic, with most variables falling within recommended limits except for lead, manganese, and copper, which were in the marginal category in 78%, 6%, and 2% of the samples, respectively. The CA and PCA identified lead as the most significant pollutant in the area. The hydrochemical characterization revealed that rock weathering was the primary process influencing the water chemistry and that the water is suitable for irrigation. The water quality index revealed that 72% of the samples were in the good to excellent water class, while the remaining 28% were in the poor to a very poor water class which may be due to lead pollution. The concerned authorities should take necessary precautions to prevent further deterioration.