Journal of Applied Chemical Science International

Rapid industrialisation, petroleum exploration, and increasing anthropogenic activities in the Niger Delta region have significantly contributed to the contamination of groundwater resources with hazardous organic pollutants, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Given the dependence of rural communities on groundwater for drinking and domestic purposes, the assessment of PAH contamination is essential for evaluating water quality, environmental safety, and associated public health risks. This study assessed the concentration and spatial distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in groundwater sources from Deken and Looyoo communities in Rivers State, Nigeria, with a view to evaluate water quality and potential health risks. Groundwater samples were collected from selected boreholes and wells across the communities and analyzed using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) following standard procedures. A wide range of PAHs were detected, including naphthalene, acenaphthylene, acenaphthene, fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene, and dibenzo(a,h)anthracene. The results showed that PAH concentrations ranged from approximately 0.00002 to 0.00090 mg/L. Looyoo recorded higher contamination levels, with notable concentrations such as pyrene (0.00070 mg/L), benzo(a)anthracene (0.00038 mg/L), and dibenzo(a,h)anthracene (0.00090 mg/L), compared to Deken where most values ranged between 0.00000 and 0.00010 mg/L. However, naphthalene showed a higher concentration in Deken (0.00050 mg/L) than in Looyoo (0.00024 mg/L), indicating localized pollution sources. Total PAH concentration was also higher in Looyoo (4.05 × 10⁻³ mg/L), confirming greater contamination intensity. The presence of both low and high molecular weight PAHs suggested of pollution mixed sources such as petroleum-related activities, combustion processes, and anthropogenic inputs. Although the levels observed are lower than those reported in heavily polluted regions  of Nigeria, exceedances of permissible limits for some compounds indicate potential health risks due to the toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic nature of PAHs. In conclusion, groundwater in both communities is contaminated and may not be safe for direct consumption without treatment. Continuous monitoring, improved environmental management and provision of safe drinking water were recommended.