EVALUATING THE RISK ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS OF AN OIL POLLUTED FARMLAND AROUND BISENI BAYELSA STATE

This study focuses on the identification and assessment of heavy metal contamination in surface sediments of the Niger Delta region, specifically evaluating the levels of pollutants such as Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni), Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As), and Iron (Fe). The primary objective was to assess the contamination and pollution levels in surface sediments using various geochemical and statistical tools, including the Geo accumulation Index (Igeo), Enrichment Factor (EF), Contamination Factor (CF), Contamination Degree (Cd), and Pollution Load Index (PLI). The findings revealed notable contamination across all locations, with particular concern over cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As), which were frequently associated with anthropogenic activities such as industrial discharge and agricultural runoff. The contamination levels were classified as moderate to very high, with several locations (L12, L13, L14) showing extreme contamination, particularly for Cd and Pb. Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated significant relationships between the heavy metals, reinforcing the idea of common pollution sources. Additionally, the Enrichment Factor and Geoaccumulation Index indicated that certain areas were enriched with these metals beyond natural levels, while the Pollution Load Index suggested widespread pollution. The Contamination Degree further corroborated the findings of significant pollution, with some sites classified under extremely high contamination. This study highlights the critical need for continuous monitoring of heavy metal contamination in the region, as well as the implementation of stringent pollution control measures and remediation strategies. The findings are a call for sustainable environmental practices, increased public awareness, and policy development aimed at reducing the environmental and health impacts of heavy metal pollution in the Niger Delta. Recommendations include the promotion of best agricultural practices, stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, and the establishment of community-based monitoring systems to track pollution levels.