The Impact of Lead (Pb) Mining on the Bio-Ecosystem of Ishaigu Town of Ebonyi State, South-Eastern Nigeria

Open-pit mining of lead (Pb) in the Ishiagu region of Ebonyi State since 1965 has exposed large volumes of marcasites, pyrites and tailings contaminating the environment and food chain pathways. This research was designed to investigate the environmental impact of Pb mining on the bio-ecosystem of Ishaigu town and environs. Soil, water, biota, food, fish and quarry dust were collected between March and May 2018, processed and analysed for Pb concentrations. The results obtained showed that all the water samples exceeded WHO recommended safety limits for Pb (≤ 10 µg/L). Soil and food samples contained Pb levels above recommended values. Sampling of Ivo River, the main communal water source showed links to upstream pollution as the river passes through Pb mining fields. The result showed the negative impact of Pb mining in Ishiagu and the need for regulatory agencies/government to take measures to avert consequences of lead poisoning.