Distribution of soil-linked organochlorine pesticides in selected farmlands in Lokoja metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

This work was to determine the presence and concentration of synthetic pesticide residues in selected farmland soils where maize and rice are planted in Lokoja Metropolis. The data obtained adequately reveals the presence of Organochlorine pesticides (OCP) in the soils where the above-mentioned grains were planted within the metropolis with concentrations above the maximum residue limit according to regulations. The Organochlorine pesticides were detected using GC-MS analysis. The results indicate the following ranges of OCP (11.99mg/kg to 17.28mg/kg). This confirms the application of the chemicals by farmers within the Metropolis. Nevertheless, both low and high concentrations of these synthetic chemicals are toxic to human and other living organisms. Factors that influence the mobility of these pesticides were determined to be pH in H₂0 (6.76-7.64), pH in Cacl₂ (5.01-6.21), moisture content (0.75-1.50), organic matter (3.76-6.84) and soil type (Loamy-sandysoil). From the data obtained, all the farmland soils analyzed presents concentrations of the pesticides above the maximum residue level. This is a pointer to the reality that synthetic organic pesticides are already available in our farmland soils in an alarming rate. As a result, it becomes a matter of urgency for advocacy for the pesticide residues and its attendant effects and strict environmental laws put in place that will bring the use of these essential but deadly chemicals under control in the metropolis.