Bacteriological and Physicochemical Analysis of Water from Different Sources in a Rural Community of Jos South Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, Nigeria

Surface and underground water polluted by microbes and chemicals exacerbates issues of water scarcity, given its importance to all life forms. This study investigated the impact of microbial and chemical pollution from water sources in the K-Vom community in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. Four water samples from various sources underwent bacteriological and physicochemical analyses following the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standard guidelines to assess their quality. Escherichia coli emerged as the predominant organism, with tap water showing the lowest contamination levels and well water, particularly from Angwan Madugu, displaying the highest bacterial counts. Physicochemical parameters generally met WHO standards, except for Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Nitrates (Means: 0.14mg/L, 74.9mg/L) which exceeded recommended limits. Statistical analysis revealed non-significant differences for TSS, Nitrates, and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), suggesting overall compliance with international guidelines. Despite meeting certain standards, local water sources remain unfit for consumption due to bacterial contamination. Consequently, the study recommends the implementation of simple water treatment measures to mitigate health risks associated with waterborne diseases, emphasizing the urgent need for improved water quality management in the region.