Abstract

Studies of heavy metals concentrations in soil samples and edible vegetables (Telfaiferia occientalis and Vernonia amygdalina) were investigated in three core crude oil producing communities (Mkpanak, Ukpenekang and Inuayet Ikot) of Ibeno Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State during the rainy and dry seasons and the control sites at Etinan L G. Area. Each sample was replicated three times. The levels of heavy metals in the samples collected were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) Unicam 919 model. The concentrations of heavy metals in soil samples during dry season were higher than those recorded in the rainy season in all the sample locations. The concentrations of heavy metals observed in soil depth (0-15 cm) were significantly higher than those recorded in (16-30cm) soil depth. The concentrations of heavy metals in edible vegetables (Telfaiferia occientalis and Vernonia amygdalina) collected from the three core crude oil producing communities of Ibeno exceeded the maximum permissible limits values of heavy metals for edible vegetable as prescribed by FEPA and WHO. The soils and edible vegetables in the core oil producing communities of Ibeno are contaminated and may pose serious adverse effect to humans and the environment.

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