Heavy Metal Concentrations Around Some Selected Major Dumpsite (GOSA AND MPAPE) in The FCT, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

This research determined heavy metal concentrations around some selected major dumpsites (Gosa and Mpape) in the FCT, Nigeria. Soil sample were collected at top soil (0-15cm) and sub soil {15-30cm) with a stainless soil augar and transferred into well labeled polyethene bags and taken to the laboratory for analysis. The concentrations of Pb, Cr, Cd, Zn, Fe, and Mn were de termined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer, PH was determined with a use of Micro PH 2000 Of a Hanna PH-meter. Description statistics (Means, median, mode, mean deviation, standard deviation and coefficient of variation), graphical representation of data, analysis of variance {ANOVA), t-test and Pearson product correlation coefficient (r) were utilized in the analysis of data. Result obtained shows that the value of lead, zinc, chromium and manganese obtain in the study area are all above the set standard By federal ministry of environment and world health organization, the value of lead, zinc, chromium, manganese are all above the values on the control site, PH have greater influence on soil lead, iron and zinc, there is no significant difference between the heavy metal concentration at dumpsite 1, dumpsite 2 with the FME and WHO standard while there is a significant difference between the mean concentration of heavy metals of dumpsite 1 and the control, dumpsite 2 and the control point and difference between the PH value of the sample soil and the heavy m etal content or concentration. Therefore the following recommendations were made that adequate orientation of the dangers of soil pollution should be given to the scavengers and resident on the dumpsite, Government should put in place adequate legislation and technology for recycling of used tyres to prevent them from being burnt so that to reduce soil pollution, the authorities of AEPB, FME, and NESERA should come up with a stringent and comprehensive safety limits to all the parame ters regarding to soil pollution, Government should discourage people from planting maze and other crops within and around the dumpsites because of the potential threat of heavy me tal to human health.