Physicochemical Characteristics and Levels of some Heavy Metals in Selected Waterholes in Old Oyo National Park, Oyo State, Nigeria

Heavy metal contamination is a concern worldwide as it influences the functionality and integrity of ecosystems. The presence of heavy metals in the ecosystem above permissible limits is not desirable as they pose toxics effects to living organisms. Hence, the objective of this paper was to assess the physicochemical characteristics and levels of heavy metals such as cadmium, copper, lead, Chromium, Zinc, Nickel, Iron and manganese in selected waterholes in Old Oyo National Park, Oyo State, Nigeria using Agilent 240FS Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The mean concentrations of Chromium (0.19±0.08), lead (0.27±0.06), Nickel (0.10±0.01), Cadmium (0.06±0.04), Iron (10.57±4.37) and Manganese (0.49±0.28) were above the permissible limit for both National Safe Drinking Water and World Health Organization (WHO). Except for Copper (0.08±0.03) and Zinc (0.17±0.04) that is below the permissible limit. The study concludes that the sampled waterholes may not be potable and/or safe for drinking; thus, it is recommended that the management of Old Oyo National Park need to intensify efforts on a holistic conservation education and enlightenment programs for the surrounding communities of the park.