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Research article · 2026 · Full text

International Journal of Advanced Chemistry Research

Geophysical Evaluation of Hydrocarbon-Impacted Soils Using Electrical Resistivity Methods in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria

Anumaka Collins C.Okafor Brian OOgidikpe Ebikefe SUwa Ogobonnaya UOkpoji Awajiiroijana UKizito Chidozie IChukwu ChibuezeAkpan Nsima AOnuchukwu Ejikeme EEtesin Monday UEkwere Ifiok OOtokwala Okino N.

Volume 8(2) · Pages 06–10 · DOI: 10.33545/26646781.2026.v8.i2a.361 ↗

Research areasGeophysical and Geoelectrical MethodsGroundwater and Watershed AnalysisGroundwater flow and contamination studies

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Abstract

Author-written

This study presents a hydrogeophysical evaluation of subsurface conditions in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria, using electrical resistivity sounding to characterise aquifer systems and assess possible environmental influence on near-surface soils. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) employing the Schlumberger electrode configuration was conducted to delineate subsurface lithology, determine aquifer geometry, and identify conductive anomalies that may reflect lithological variation or environmental alteration in this industrialised Niger Delta setting. Apparent resistivity values ranged approximately from 20 Ωm to over 600 Ωm, indicating heterogeneous subsurface conditions dominated by clay, sandy clay, fine sand, and coarse sand formations consistent with coastal plain sand deposits. Near-surface conductive zones were identified within the upper 4-6 m and are interpreted primarily as clay-rich or moisture-saturated layers, although possible environmental influence cannot be excluded without supporting hydrochemical or geochemical data. Aquifer units were delineated within moderately high resistivity sandy formations at depths between approximately 16 m and 48 m, with aquifer thickness ranging from about 24 m to 29 m. Derived Dar Zarrouk parameters indicate moderate to high groundwater potential, while longitudinal conductance values suggest weak to moderate aquifer protective capacity, implying some vulnerability to contaminant migration where overburden protection is limited. The resistivity results indicate favourable groundwater occurrence within the study area but emphasise the need for integrated hydrogeophysical, hydrochemical, and environmental investigations to ensure reliable groundwater development and environmental protection in hydrocarbon-influenced terrains of the Niger Delta.

Summary

Source-checked

Plain-language reading of the full paper, prepared with AI and checked against the text. Each point links to the authors' own words.

  1. Why it matters

    • Industrial activities related to hydrocarbon production in the Niger Delta have led to significant soil and groundwater contamination. View evidence ↗

      Why it matters

      Industrial activities related to hydrocarbon production in the Niger Delta have led to significant soil and groundwater contamination.

      In the paper's own words

      “Hydrocarbon exploration, production, and associated industrial activities in the Niger Delta have contributed significantly to environmental challenges, particularly soil and groundwater contamination.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Introduction

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • Eleme, Rivers State, is a major industrial hub featuring petrochemical industries and petroleum refineries. View evidence ↗

      Why it matters

      Eleme, Rivers State, is a major industrial hub featuring petrochemical industries and petroleum refineries.

      In the paper's own words

      “Eleme, Rivers State, is one of the industrial hubs within this region, hosting petroleum refineries, petrochemical industries, and extensive oil-related infrastructure.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Introduction

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
  2. The question

    • The study aims to use electrical resistivity methods in Eleme to characterize subsurface lithology, identify conductive anomalies linked to environmental impact, and assess groundwater vulnerability. View evidence ↗

      The question

      The study aims to use electrical resistivity methods in Eleme to characterize subsurface lithology, identify conductive anomalies linked to environmental impact, and assess groundwater vulnerability.

      In the paper's own words

      “This study, therefore, applies electrical resistivity methods to evaluate hydrocarbon-impacted soils in Eleme, Rivers State, with the aim of characterising subsurface lithology, identifying conductive anomalies potentially associated with environmental impact, and assessing implications for groundwater vulnerability.”

      Page 2

      Found in: Introduction

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗
  3. What they did

    • The research was conducted in the Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria, located in the eastern Niger Delta sedimentary basin. View evidence ↗

      What they did

      The research was conducted in the Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria, located in the eastern Niger Delta sedimentary basin.

      In the paper's own words

      “The investigation was conducted in Eleme Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria, within the eastern Niger Delta sedimentary basin.”

      Page 2

      Found in: Study Area and Geological Setting

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗
    • The researchers used Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) with a Schlumberger electrode configuration to detect vertical resistivity variations. View evidence ↗

      What they did

      The researchers used Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) with a Schlumberger electrode configuration to detect vertical resistivity variations.

      In the paper's own words

      “Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) using the Schlumberger electrode configuration was employed due to its suitability for detecting vertical resistivity variations and deeper subsurface structures in sedimentary terrains.”

      Page 2

      Found in: Geophysical Method and Survey Design

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗
    • Field data was collected using a digital terrameter, stainless steel electrodes, and a GPS receiver for spatial referencing. View evidence ↗

      What they did

      Field data was collected using a digital terrameter, stainless steel electrodes, and a GPS receiver for spatial referencing.

      In the paper's own words

      “Field measurements were carried out using a digital terrameter, stainless steel electrodes, insulated cables, measuring tapes, a hammer, and a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for spatial referencing.”

      Page 2

      Found in: Field Data Acquisition

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗
    • Standard Dar Zarrouk relationships were used to derive hydrogeophysical parameters from the interpreted layer thickness and resistivity. View evidence ↗

      What they did

      Standard Dar Zarrouk relationships were used to derive hydrogeophysical parameters from the interpreted layer thickness and resistivity.

      In the paper's own words

      “Hydrogeophysical parameters were derived from interpreted layer resistivity and thickness using standard Dar Zarrouk relationships.”

      Page 2

      Found in: Dar Zarrouk Parameter Estimation

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗
  4. What they found

    • Apparent resistivity values between approximately 20 Ωm and over 600 Ωm indicate a heterogeneous subsurface composed of clay, sandy clay, fine sand, and coarse sand. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      Apparent resistivity values between approximately 20 Ωm and over 600 Ωm indicate a heterogeneous subsurface composed of clay, sandy clay, fine sand, and coarse sand.

      In the paper's own words

      “Apparent resistivity values ranged approximately from 20 Ωm to over 600 Ωm, indicating heterogeneous subsurface conditions dominated by clay, sandy clay, fine sand, and coarse sand formations”

      Page 1

      Found in: Conclusion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • Conductive near-surface zones were identified between 0 m and 6 m depth, with thicknesses ranging from approximately 4 m to 6 m. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      Conductive near-surface zones were identified between 0 m and 6 m depth, with thicknesses ranging from approximately 4 m to 6 m.

      In the paper's own words

      “These zones occur within the upper 0 m to 6 m depth range with a thickness between approximately 4 m and 6 m.”

      Page 4

      Found in: Conclusion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 4 ↗
    • Aquifers were found in sandy formations at depths between approximately 16 m and 48 m, with thicknesses between about 24 m and 29 m. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      Aquifers were found in sandy formations at depths between approximately 16 m and 48 m, with thicknesses between about 24 m and 29 m.

      In the paper's own words

      “Aquifer units were delineated within moderately high resistivity sandy formations at depths between approximately 16 m and 48 m, with aquifer thickness ranging from about 24 m to 29 m.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Conclusion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • Longitudinal conductance values from approximately 0.17 Siemens to 0.20 Siemens indicate that the aquifer's protective capacity is weak to moderate. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      Longitudinal conductance values from approximately 0.17 Siemens to 0.20 Siemens indicate that the aquifer's protective capacity is weak to moderate.

      In the paper's own words

      “Conductance values range approximately from 0.17 Siemens to 0.20 Siemens, indicating weak to moderate protective capacity.”

      Page 4

      Found in: Discussion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 4 ↗
    • Transverse resistance values between approximately 10,080 Ωm² and 17,980 Ωm² suggest moderate to very high aquifer productivity. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      Transverse resistance values between approximately 10,080 Ωm² and 17,980 Ωm² suggest moderate to very high aquifer productivity.

      In the paper's own words

      “Values range approximately from 10,080 Ωm² to 17,980 Ωm², reflecting moderate to very high aquifer productivity.”

      Page 4

      Found in: Discussion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 4 ↗
  5. What it means

    • The authors conclude that geophysical surveys must be combined with environmental monitoring and hydrochemical analysis to ensure sustainable groundwater use in the industrial Niger Delta. View evidence ↗

      What it means

      The authors conclude that geophysical surveys must be combined with environmental monitoring and hydrochemical analysis to ensure sustainable groundwater use in the industrial Niger Delta.

      In the paper's own words

      “The results underscore the importance of combining geophysical surveys with hydrochemical analysis and environmental monitoring to ensure sustainable groundwater utilisation in industrially impacted regions of the Niger Delta.”

      Page 6

      Found in: Discussion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 6 ↗
    • The authors state that resistivity data alone cannot definitively confirm hydrocarbon contamination and requires complementary geochemical analysis. View evidence ↗

      What it means

      The authors state that resistivity data alone cannot definitively confirm hydrocarbon contamination and requires complementary geochemical analysis.

      In the paper's own words

      “electrical resistivity data alone cannot definitively confirm hydrocarbon contamination; complementary geochemical analysis would be necessary for confirmation.”

      Page 4

      Found in: Conclusion

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 4 ↗

Visual summary

3 visuals

Illustrations explain the paper; charts are replotted from the paper's own table values.

AI-generated illustration
AI-generated conceptual illustration (Subsurface soil lithology in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria). It explains the idea and does not show study data.↗ Enlarge
Subsurface Lithology Model
AI-generated conceptual illustration (Subsurface soil lithology in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria). It explains the idea and does not show study data.

AI-generated conceptual illustration (Subsurface soil lithology in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria). It explains the idea and does not show study data.

Open full-size image ↗

Subsurface Lithology Model

AI-generated conceptual illustration (Subsurface soil lithology in Eleme, Rivers State, Nigeria). It explains the idea and does not show study data.

View source evidence ↗
Replotted from source data
Replotted from Table 2 (page 3) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.↗ Enlarge
Depth to Aquifer Base (m) and Aquifer Thickness (m): ERS 1 vs ERS 2 vs ERS 3 vs ERS 4
Replotted from Table 2 (page 3) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

Replotted from Table 2 (page 3) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

Open full-size image ↗

Depth to Aquifer Base (m) and Aquifer Thickness (m): ERS 1 vs ERS 2 vs ERS 3 vs ERS 4

Replotted from Table 2 (page 3) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

View source evidence ↗
Replotted from source data
Replotted from Table 5 (page 4) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.↗ Enlarge
Conductance S (Siemens): ERS 1 vs ERS 2 vs ERS 3 vs ERS 4
Replotted from Table 5 (page 4) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

Replotted from Table 5 (page 4) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

Open full-size image ↗

Conductance S (Siemens): ERS 1 vs ERS 2 vs ERS 3 vs ERS 4

Replotted from Table 5 (page 4) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

View source evidence ↗

Figures & tables

From the original paper
Apparent Resistivity Values, Layer Parameters and Interpreted Subsurface LithologyTable 1Page 3Aquifer Depth, Thickness and Confinement ConditionTable 2Page 3Electrical Anomaly ClassificationTable 3Page 4Summary Hydrogeophysical CharacteristicsTable 4Page 4Longitudinal Conductance (Protective Capacity Assessment)Table 5Page 4Transverse Resistance (Indicator of Aquifer Potential)Table 6Page 4Electrical Anomaly Depth DistributionTable 7Page 5Overall Hydrogeophysical InterpretationTable 8Page 5
FULL TEXT Original article · reflowed for reading

Introduction

Hydrocarbon exploration, production, and associated industrial activities in the Niger Delta have contributed significantly to environmental challenges, particularly soil and groundwater contamination. Eleme, Rivers State, is one of the industrial hubs within this region, hosting petroleum refineries, petrochemical industries, and extensive oil-related infrastructure. These activities have increased concerns regarding hydrocarbon pollution, soil degradation, and potential impacts on groundwater resources and ecosystem health. Environmental assessments in the Niger Delta have consistently highlighted the presence of hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and related pollutants in soils, sediments, and surface waters due to industrial emissions, spills, and gas flaring activities (Aghanwa et al., 2025; Okpoji et al., 2025) [3,13] . Conventional environmental assessment methods, although effective, are often expensive, time-consuming, and spatially limited. Consequently, geophysical techniques have gained prominence as noninvasive tools for detecting subsurface contamination and evaluating soil and groundwater conditions. Electrical resistivity methods, in particular, have proven useful for characterising subsurface lithology, identifying conductive anomalies, and assessing environmental impacts because the electrical properties of soils are strongly influenced by fluid saturation, clay content, and contaminant presence (Dewashish et al., 2014) [6] . Variations in resistivity can therefore provide indirect indicators of hydrocarbon-impacted soils, although geophysical data typically require validation through geochemical analysis for definitive confirmation (Asfahani, 2013) [4] . In sedimentary environments such as the Niger Delta, the distribution of coastal plain sands interbedded with clay layers significantly influences contaminant migration, groundwater occurrence, and resistivity response. Clay-rich formations often act as confining or protective layers, while sandy formations may facilitate contaminant transport due to higher permeability. Geoelectric investigations have demonstrated that resistivity techniques are effective in delineating aquifer systems, evaluating groundwater vulnerability, and assessing environmental risk in such sedimentary terrains (Okiongbo & Akpofure, 2012; Ikpe et al., 2025) [12,9] . Multi-criteria approaches combining geophysical and geological parameters have further enhanced the prediction of groundwater potential and vulnerability in complex environments (Adiat et al., 2013) [2] . Environmental geochemical studies within the Niger Delta have also reported hydrocarbon accumulation in sediments, atmospheric deposition from gas flaring, and pollutant transport into surface and groundwater systems, emphasising the need for integrated monitoring strategies (Ogbaji et al., 2025; Okagbare et al., 2025) [10,11] . Such findings underscore the importance of applying geophysical methods alongside environmental assessment to understand contaminant distribution and protect water resources. This study, therefore, applies electrical resistivity methods to evaluate hydrocarbon-impacted soils in Eleme, Rivers State, with the aim of characterising subsurface lithology, identifying conductive anomalies potentially associated with environmental impact, and assessing implications for groundwater vulnerability.

Materials and Methods

Materials and Methods

Study Area and Geological Setting

The investigation was conducted in Eleme Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria, within the eastern Niger Delta sedimentary basin. The area is underlain predominantly by coastal plain sands of the Benin Formation interbedded with clay and sandy clay units. These unconsolidated sediments influence groundwater occurrence, subsurface electrical properties, and contaminant migration pathways. The region is characterised by significant industrial and petroleum activities, making it environmentally sensitive with potential hydrocarbon-related soil alteration. High rainfall and shallow groundwater conditions further enhance infiltration processes, which may influence geoelectric responses.

Geophysical Method and Survey Design

The electrical resistivity method was adopted for subsurface investigation because of its effectiveness in delineating lithological boundaries, aquifer systems, and conductive anomalies. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) using the Schlumberger electrode configuration was employed due to its suitability for detecting vertical resistivity variations and deeper subsurface structures in sedimentary terrains. The configuration involves progressive expansion of current electrode spacing while maintaining relatively small potential electrode spacing, enabling improved depth penetration and vertical resolution.

Field Data Acquisition

Field measurements were carried out using a digital terrameter, stainless steel electrodes, insulated cables, measuring tapes, a hammer, and a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for spatial referencing. Current was introduced into the ground through two outer electrodes (A and B), while the potential difference was measured between two inner electrodes (M and N). Apparent resistivity values were computed automatically by the resistivity meter based on measured voltage, injected current, and electrode spacing. The apparent resistivity (ρa) is expressed as:

where ρa is the apparent resistivity, ΔV is the measured potential difference, I is the injected current, and K is the geometric factor determined by electrode spacing. For the Schlumberger array, the geometric factor is given by:

Electrode spacing was progressively increased to investigate deeper subsurface layers, and sounding stations were selected to minimise interference from buried infrastructure and cultural noise.

Data Processing and Interpretation

Apparent resistivity values were plotted against electrode spacing on log-log graphs to generate sounding curves. Preliminary interpretation involved manual curve matching with standard master curves, followed by computer-assisted inversion to determine true layer resistivity and thickness. The inversion process involved iterative adjustment of model parameters until acceptable root-mean-square error levels were achieved between observed and calculated data. Resulting geoelectric curve types, such as H, KH, and K curves, were used to infer subsurface layering typical of sedimentary environments.

Lithological and Aquifer Characterisation

Lithological interpretation was based on established resistivity ranges within the Niger Delta sedimentary terrains. Low resistivity values generally indicate clay-rich or conductive formations, moderate values correspond to sandy clay or fine sand units, while higher resistivity values are associated with coarse sand or gravel formations with higher permeability. Aquifer depth, thickness, and confinement conditions were inferred from interpreted layer parameters. Electrical anomalies observed in near-surface layers were interpreted cautiously as conductive zones potentially influenced by clay content, moisture, or environmental alteration, recognising that resistivity data alone cannot confirm hydrocarbon contamination without supporting geochemical analysis.

Dar Zarrouk Parameter Estimation

Hydrogeophysical parameters were derived from interpreted layer resistivity and thickness using standard Dar Zarrouk relationships. Longitudinal conductance (S), which reflects aquifer protective capacity, was calculated as:

S = Σ(h / ρ)

Where h is the layer thickness and ρ is the layer resistivity. Higher longitudinal conductance values indicate better protective capacity of the overburden against contaminant infiltration. Transverse resistance (T), used as an indicator of aquifer potential, was calculated as:

Higher transverse resistance values generally correspond to thicker and more resistive aquifer units with greater groundwater potential. However, these values were interpreted qualitatively and not directly equated to transmissivity without supporting hydrogeological calibration.

Quality Assurance and Error Control

To ensure data reliability, electrodes were properly grounded to minimise contact resistance, repeated measurements were taken at each station, and instrument calibration was verified prior to data acquisition. Survey locations were selected to avoid interference from pipelines, metallic structures, and electrical installations. Data inversion included monitoring of RMS error values to ensure acceptable model fit and geological plausibility.

Data Analysis and Presentation

Interpreted resistivity values, aquifer geometry, Dar Zarrouk parameters, and environmental interpretations were presented in tabular form for clarity. Comparative analysis of resistivity distribution, aquifer characteristics, protective capacity, and conductive anomalies was conducted to evaluate groundwater potential and possible environmental influence on subsurface conditions. The interpretation approach emphasised geophysical consistency while acknowledging limitations associated with resistivity-based environmental assessment.

Results

Results

Discussion

The resistivity investigation carried out in Eleme revealed considerable subsurface variability consistent with sedimentary environments typical of the Niger Delta basin. Apparent resistivity values ranging from about 20 Ωm to over 600 Ωm reflect alternating clay, sandy clay, fine sand, and coarse sand formations. Such heterogeneity is expected in coastal plain sand deposits and has been widely reported in resistivity studies of sedimentary terrains where lithological variability strongly controls groundwater occurrence and electrical response (Asfahani, 2013) [4] . Electrical resistivity tomography studies have similarly demonstrated that variations in subsurface resistivity often reflect changes in grain size distribution, fluid saturation, and mineral composition rather than a single environmental factor (Dewashish et al., 2014) [6] .

. Studies of hydrocarbon-contaminated sediments in the region have also highlighted seasonal variability and environmental transport processes that may influence subsurface geophysical signatures (Ogbaji et al., 2025) [10] . The moderate resistivity values observed in intermediate layers, typically between about 95 Ωm and 180 Ωm, were interpreted as sandy clay or fine sand formations. These transitional lithologies commonly act as semi-permeable zones capable of storing limited groundwater while also serving as partial confining layers. Multi-criteria groundwater evaluation approaches integrating geoelectric and geological parameters have shown that such transitional formations significantly influence groundwater potential and aquifer vulnerability (Adiat et al., 2013) [2] . In sedimentary terrains, the presence of sandy clay overburden often determines the degree of aquifer confinement and protective capacity. Higher resistivity values exceeding approximately 400 Ωm were interpreted as coarse sand or gravel formations representing the principal aquifer units. These formations typically exhibit higher porosity and permeability, making them favourable for groundwater storage and transmission. Resistivity-based aquifer characterisation studies have consistently demonstrated that coarse sandy formations correspond to productive aquifers due to their hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity characteristics (Adeniyi et al., 2013) [1] . Investigations of aquifer properties in southeastern Nigeria have similarly reported that resistive sandy units constitute the primary groundwater-bearing formations (Bija et al., 2018) [5] . Aquifer depths identified in this study, generally between about 16 m and 48 m, indicate moderate groundwater occurrence consistent with sedimentary basin hydrogeology. Comparable aquifer depths have been reported in groundwater vulnerability mapping studies using geoelectric methods in the Niger Delta region, where sediment thickness and depositional environment influence groundwater distribution (Okiongbo & Akpofure, 2012) [12] . The aquifer thickness values ranging from approximately 24 m to 29 m suggest adequate groundwater storage capacity and favourable conditions for borehole development. The calculated longitudinal conductance values, generally between about 0.17 Siemens and 0.20 Siemens, indicate weak to moderate aquifer protective capacity. This suggests that while clay-rich overburden exists in some locations, aquifers may still be vulnerable to contamination under sustained environmental pressure. Aquifer protection studies have emphasised the importance of overburden thickness and resistivity in determining vulnerability to contaminant infiltration, particularly in urban and industrial areas (Facazio et al., 2002) [8] . Similar resistivity-based assessments in southern Nigeria have highlighted the need for continuous groundwater monitoring in areas with moderate protective capacity (Ikpe et al., 2025) [9] . Transverse resistance values obtained in this study ranged approximately from 10,080 Ωm² to 17,980 Ωm², indicating moderate to high aquifer productivity potential. Higher transverse resistance values generally reflect thicker and more resistive aquifer units, which correlate with favourable groundwater yield potential. However, previous studies caution that transverse resistance should be interpreted qualitatively unless calibrated with hydrogeological data such as pumping tests or borehole yield measurements (Eyankware et al., 2022) [7] . Consequently, the results should be viewed as indicative rather than definitive measures of aquifer productivity. Environmental considerations remain particularly important in the Eleme area due to industrial activities and petroleum operations. Investigations of atmospheric deposition, hydrocarbon transport, and water quality in the Niger Delta have demonstrated that environmental pollutants can influence both surface and subsurface water systems (Aghanwa et al., 2025) [2] . Integrated hydrochemical and geophysical assessments have therefore been recommended for comprehensive groundwater vulnerability evaluation, especially in hydrocarbon-producing regions (Okagbare et al., 2025) [11] . The resistivity data indicate favourable hydrogeological conditions characterised by moderately deep aquifers, appreciable aquifer thickness, and relatively high resistivity sandy formations suitable for groundwater development. However, the presence of conductive surface layers and moderate aquifer protective capacity suggests potential environmental vulnerability. The results underscore the importance of combining geophysical surveys with hydrochemical analysis and environmental monitoring to ensure sustainable groundwater utilisation in industrially impacted regions of the Niger Delta.

Conclusion

The electrical resistivity investigation conducted in Eleme, Rivers State, has provided important insights into subsurface lithology, aquifer characteristics, and possible environmental influence on soil and groundwater systems. The results indicate heterogeneous subsurface conditions dominated by clay, sandy clay, fine sand, and coarse sand formations typical of the Niger Delta sedimentary basin. Apparent resistivity values ranging from about 20 Ωm to over 600 Ωm reflect variations in lithology, moisture content, and subsurface fluid characteristics. Aquifer units were identified mainly within moderately high resistivity sandy formations at depths between approximately 16 m and 48 m, with aquifer thickness generally ranging from about 24 m to 29 m. These characteristics suggest favourable groundwater storage capacity and potential suitability for borehole development. The calculated transverse resistance values indicate moderate to high aquifer productivity potential, although confirmation through hydrogeological testing would strengthen these interpretations. The presence of low-resistivity near-surface layers indicates conductive zones that may reflect clay-rich soils, high moisture content, or possible environmental alteration associated with industrial activities. However, electrical resistivity data alone cannot conclusively confirm hydrocarbon contamination without supporting geochemical evidence. Longitudinal conductance values suggest weak to moderate aquifer protective capacity, indicating some vulnerability to contamination where overburden layers are relatively thin or permeable. The study demonstrates that Eleme possesses appreciable groundwater potential within coarse sand aquifer systems, but environmental vulnerability remains an important consideration due to industrial and petroleum-related activities in the region. The findings emphasise the need for integrated hydrogeophysical and hydrochemical investigations, continuous environmental monitoring, and sustainable groundwater management practices to ensure safe and reliable water resources in the Niger Delta region.

Figures and tables from the paper

Table 1. Apparent Resistivity Values, Layer Parameters and Interpreted Subsurface Lithology
StationCurve TypeLayerThickness (m)Resistivity (Ωm)Interpreted LithologyHydrogeophysical Interpretation
ERS 1H1528Clayey topsoilConductive near-surface layer; possible impacted soil
21395Sandy claySemi-permeable overburden
324420Coarse sandMain aquifer zone
ERS 2KH1632Silty clayConductive surface layer
214120Fine sandTransitional aquifer layer
325510Coarse sandProductive aquifer
ERS 3H1420Clayey soilStrong conductive anomaly
212110Sandy claySemi-permeable layer
324470Coarse sandAquifer unit
ERS 4K1540Clay/siltModerately conductive overburden
214180Fine sandSemi-permeable formation
329620Coarse sand/gravelHighly permeable aquifer

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Apparent Resistivity Values, Layer Parameters and Interpreted Subsurface Lithology↗ Enlarge
Table 1
Apparent Resistivity Values, Layer Parameters and Interpreted Subsurface Lithology

Apparent Resistivity Values, Layer Parameters and Interpreted Subsurface Lithology

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Original paper tableSource PDF · page 3 ↗
Table 2. Aquifer Depth, Thickness and Confinement Condition
StationDepth to Aquifer Top (m)Depth to Aquifer Base (m)Aquifer Thickness (m)Confinement Basis
ERS 1184224Clay overburden present (semi-confined)
ERS 2204525Thick clay cover (confined)
ERS 3164024Moderate clay cover (semi-confined)
ERS 4194829Sandy clay cover (confined tendency)

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Table 2
Aquifer Depth, Thickness and Confinement Condition

Aquifer Depth, Thickness and Confinement Condition

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Table 3. Electrical Anomaly Classification
Resistivity Range (Ωm)Likely Subsurface ConditionInterpretation Caution
< 50Clayey soil or conductive pore fluidMay indicate impacted soil, but requires geochemical validation
50-150Sandy clay / fine sandTransitional hydrogeological zone
150-400Saturated sandPossible aquifer formation
> 400Coarse sand/gravelHighly permeable aquifer units

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Table 3
Electrical Anomaly Classification

Electrical Anomaly Classification

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Table 4. Summary Hydrogeophysical Characteristics
ParameterObserved RangeInterpretation
Resistivity Values20-620 ΩmVariable subsurface lithology
Aquifer Depth16-48 mModerate groundwater occurrence
Aquifer Thickness24-29 mAdequate groundwater storage
Overburden Resistivity20-180 ΩmClay to sandy clay cover
Groundwater PotentialModerate-HighSuitable for borehole development

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Table 4
Summary Hydrogeophysical Characteristics

Summary Hydrogeophysical Characteristics

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Table 5. Longitudinal Conductance (Protective Capacity Assessment)
StationOverburden Thickness (m)Average Resistivity (Ωm)Conductance S (Siemens)Protective Capacity
ERS 118900.20Weak-moderate
ERS 2201000.20Moderate
ERS 316950.17Weak
ERS 4191100.17Weak-moderate

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Longitudinal Conductance (Protective Capacity Assessment)

Longitudinal Conductance (Protective Capacity Assessment)

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Table 6. Transverse Resistance (Indicator of Aquifer Potential)
StationAquifer Thickness (m)Resistivity (Ωm)Transverse Resistance (Ωm²)Aquifer Productivity Indicator
ERS 12442010080Moderate-high potential
ERS 22551012750High potential
ERS 32447011280Moderate-high potential
ERS 42962017980Very high potential

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Table 6
Transverse Resistance (Indicator of Aquifer Potential)

Transverse Resistance (Indicator of Aquifer Potential)

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Table 7. Electrical Anomaly Depth Distribution
StationDepth of Conductive Zone (m)Thickness (m)Interpretation
ERS 10-55Surface conductive anomaly
ERS 20-66Possible impacted soil layer
ERS 30-44Strong conductive anomaly
ERS 40-55Conductive overburden

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Electrical Anomaly Depth Distribution

Electrical Anomaly Depth Distribution

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Table 8. Overall Hydrogeophysical Interpretation
FactorObservationImplication
Surface LayerLow resistivity conductive zonesPossible soil alteration; confirmation requires geochemical analysis
Aquifer UnitsModerate to high resistivity sandsPotential groundwater resources
Protective CapacityWeak to moderateSome vulnerability to contamination
Groundwater SuitabilityGenerally favourableFurther hydrochemical validation is recommended

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Table 8
Overall Hydrogeophysical Interpretation

Overall Hydrogeophysical Interpretation

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References

13 in the original paper
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  2. Adiat KAN, Nawawi MNM, Abdullah K. Assessing the accuracy of electrical resistivity imaging for groundwater exploration. Environ Earth Sci. 2013;69(8):1-12.
  3. Aghanwa CI, Umueni UE, Etukudo NJ, Amachree JB, Okpoji AU, Ejeka CJ, et al. Atmospheric deposition of soot and heavy metals from gas flaring into surface waters of Ebocha, Rivers State, Nigeria. Asian J Environ Ecol. 2025;24(11):137-147.
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