Assessment of Hand-Dug Wells Water Quality in Apeinumbu Community of Yandev, Gboko Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria: Implications for Public Health

Understanding groundwater especially hand-dug well water quality in rural communities is a matter of utmost importance for ensuring public health and sustainable development. This study therefore investigated water quality of hand-dug wells and its implication for public health in the Apeinumbu Community of Yandev, Gboko Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria, focusing on physical, chemical, biological, and microbiological parameters. Water samples were taken from three locations across the study area, namely: Kumbur’s Residence, NKST Pastor’s Residence and Divine Mercy Neighborhood. The water samples were subject to standard laboratory analysis at Greater Makurdi Water Works Laboratory, Makurdi. Tables and bar charts were used for statistical analysis and compared with National Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) and WHO standards. The result shows that a pH values of 6.20, 6.00 and 6.45 at Kumbur’s Residence, NKST Pastor’s Residence, and Divine Mercy Neighborhood which are below the recommended standards, indicating increased acidity. Deviations were also observed in color, suspended solids, and turbidity levels, with some exceeding the WHO standards. Iron concentrations in Divine Mercy (1.09mg/l) surpassed permissible limits, while nitrite levels exceeded guidelines in NKST Pastor’s Residence and Devine Mercy. Dissolved Oxygen levels were slightly below standards, and Biological Oxygen Demand indicated organic pollution. Coliform counts at NKST Pastor’s Residence (17 cfu/100L) and Devine Mercy Neighborhood (32 cfu/100L) exceeded acceptable limits. The study concludes that water from these wells, particularly in Devine Mercy and NKST Pastor’s Residence, poses health risks due to deviations from recommended standards. The acidic nature, chemical contaminants, and microbial contamination, as indicated by coliform counts, underscore potential health hazards for residents relying on these wells. Recommendations include avoiding untreated water consumption, implementing urgent water treatment measures, conducting community awareness programmes, and regular monitoring of water quality. Strict adherence to microbiological standards is crucial for public health, especially in areas with high coliform contamination. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing water quality concerns in the Yandev community to safeguard the health of its residents.