Assessment of Bacteriological Quality and Physico-Chemical Parameters of Freshwater and the Associated Risk Factors in Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the bacteriological quality and physicochemical parameters of freshwater sources in Gombe State, Nigeria, and evaluates the associated public health, environmental, and economic risks. Water samples were collected from seven strategic locations across six Local Government Areas, encompassing four major dams and three rivers. Bacteriological analysis was conducted using the Most Probable Number (MPN) method to quantify total coliform and Escherichia coli levels. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen, heavy metals, nitrate, and ammonia, were analyzed following standard American Public Health Association (APHA) protocols. The sampling sites exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) standard of 0 CFU/100ml for both total coliforms (700–3500 CFU/100ml) and E. coli (300–2400 CFU/100ml), indicating widespread faecal pollution. Key physicochemical parameters such as turbidity (48–1098 NTU) and temperature (26–33°C) also significantly surpassed WHO guidelines. Elevated levels of chromium and nitrate were detected, further indicating pollution from industrial and agricultural sources. The primary pollution sources were agricultural runoff, domestic and urban wastewater, with associated risks encompassing waterborne disease outbreaks. The freshwater resources in Gombe State are critically polluted and pose a significant threat to public health and sustainable development.