CONSIDERATIONS ON CONTAMINATION OF GROUNDWATER BY WASTE-DISPOSAL SYSTEMS IN NIGERIA

The interdependence of water quality parameters with distance from pol luting sources and depth of twenty four native wells in Abeokuta, Nige ria is examined in this study. In gross features, the bacteriological quality as monitored by coliform counts showed significant negative co rrelation of 0.74 and 0.60 with distance from polluting source and dep th of well respectively. Most of the wells examined had construction d efects and there was evidence of faecal contamination. The results hig hlight possible environmental impacts of lapses in construction and ob vious contamination of this popular water systems. The study probably highlights the much needed awareness on the part of local residents an d environmental health authorities to curb dangers inherent in poor sa nitation and consumption of contaminated groundwater. The results coul d serve as a basis for planning and policy formulation on environmenta l sanitation, drainage systems, native well siting, construction, fini shing and maintenance.