POST-IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF OIL SPILLAGE ON WATER CHARACTERISATION

The coastal waters from an oil polluted area in Nigeria were examined for some physico- chemical parameters and heavy metals. The impact of seasonal changes on water qualities was also investigated. The nutrient levels particularly during the dry season are eutrophic. The trends were such that apart from electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids and Zn where averagely <10% , < 17% and none respectively exceeded the WHO guidelines for water at both seasons, other parameters exceeded the guidelines greatly. Additionally, levels obtained rendered the water unsuitable for both recreational and agricultural purposes based on USEPA guidelines. Significant correlations (p < 0.01) were observed between the levels obtained between the two seasons. However, only with pH was any significant difference in the mean between the two seasons recorded. The anthropogenic input of oil in the form of spill was observed to influence greatly some water qualities. Thus, not only is the water unfit for drinking but also unsuitable for livestock and agricultural activities which are the mainstay of the inhabitants.