ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF SOIL AND WATER ALONG RURAL ROADS IN SOME COMMUNITIES IN EKITI STATE NIGERIA

This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal concentrations of soil and water samples collected from fifteen locations along rural roads in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The aim was to evaluate environmental quality and identify potential pollution sources associated with vehicular and agricultural activities. Standard analytical methods were employed to determine parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, chloride, organic matter, organic carbon, and residual humidity, as well as heavy metals including Fe, Mn, Cu, Cr, Zn, Ni, and Ti. Results revealed that iron (15,795–175,863 mg/kg) and manganese (214–175,863 mg/kg) were the most abundant metals, exceeding WHO/FAO permissible limits, while chromium (69–2,020 mg/kg) and copper (21–580 mg/kg) were moderately elevated, suggesting anthropogenic enrichment from road dust and lubricants. Soil pH ranged from 6.14 to 6.86, indicating slightly acidic conditions conducive to metal mobility, whereas organic matter (0.047–0.427%) and carbon (0.027–0.247%) levels were low, reflecting reduced fertility. Water samples exhibited pH (6.74–7.02), conductivity (67–488 µS/cm), and chloride (1.1–3.1 mg/L) values within WHO limits, indicating minimal contamination. Overall, the results show that roadside soils are moderately impacted by heavy metal accumulation, while water quality remains within safe limits. Continuous monitoring, soil management, and pollution control measures are recommended to prevent further degradation of soil and water resources in the study area.