Abstract

Heavy metal and microbial contamination are a common challenge affecting most water sources in many Nigerian communities. The present study is therefore aimed at investigating the heavy metal and microbial contamination of water consumed by the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Wassa camp of the Federal Capital Territory. Water was sampled from four water sources (Borehole, a dug-out pond and two stream points). Water samples were collected in triplicates and processed for heavy metal and microbial contamination according to standard methods. Data obtained was subjected to One Way Analysis of Variance in R statistical package. The result showed that the primary source of water (Borehole) at the camp had higher Lead (0.07 ± 0.0 mg/L), Cadmium (0.05 ± 0.0 mg/L) and Zinc (0.09 ± 0.0 mg/L) levels, which were above the recommended WHO limits. The observed variations in heavy metal concentrations across the water sources were significantly different (p < 0.05). The coliform bacteria identified include Enterobacter spp. (31.25%), Escherichia coli (25%), Salmonella spp. (18.75%), Proteus mirabilis (18.75%), and Shigella spp. (6.25%). The present study revealed that the Borehole water poses serious health threats of lead and cadmium toxicity. While the IDPs exposed to the two stream points are at risk of bacterial infection. Hence, there is a need for intervention from the government and concerned agencies in terms of providing quality water for the IDP camp