Occurrence and Fate of Polychlorinated Biphenylsin Water and Sediments: A Case Study of Bodo River in Ogoni, River State Nigeria

Contamination of water bodies due to the presence of persistent organic pollutant (POPs) has been a major concern in the environment. In this study, the concentration of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Heavy metals in sediments and water samples in Bodo River were studied. Standard Analytical techniques were employed during the sampling process in order to achieve high level of accuracy and precision. The samples were digested and the extracts were collected for GCMS determination of Polychlorinated Biphenyls in the samples collected. The results of the analysis shows that the concentration of Polychlorinated Biphenyls were found to exceed the maximum residue limit of persistent organic pollutant. Therefore it is advised that farmlands and boreholes connected to the sampling location be evaluated so as to minimize the health risk associated with exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls.