Variation in Water Quality of a Freshwater Source in Ogoni

Wiiyaakara stream is a freshwater resource in wiiyaakara community in Ogoni, Rivers State, Nigeria. This study assessed the physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentrations of this steam under varying conditions: seasonal, spatial and disturbance related conditions. Water samples were collected from drinking and non-drinking portions of the stream during the dry season (February 2025), different portions, disturbed/undisturbed conditions and rainy season (June 2025). Standard analytical procedures were used to determine pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity and concentrations of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As) and lead (Pb). EC (297–305 µS/cm), TDS (193–198 mg/L) and pH (6.28–7.80) were within WHO permissible limits for all water samples. Turbidity, however, exceeded recommended limits, particularly during the rainy season (126.6 NTU). Quantitative assessment of heavy metals showed extremely elevated concentrations of Cd (0.017–0.046 mg/L), As (0.01–0.09 mg/L) and Pb (0.091–0.262 mg/L), all far above WHO guideline values. Cr remained within safe limits and was undetected in the rainy season. Seasonal trends, disturbance comparisons and portion-based analyses all confirmed consistently high levels of Cd, As, and Pb, indicating a significant Contamination source within. The findings reveal serious ecological and public health risks, rendering the stream water unsafe for human consumption and potentially hazardous for irrigation and livestock use. Immediate pollution source-tracking investigation and mitigation of contamination sources are imperative to protect the community and aquatic environment.