Journal of Geoscience and Eco Agricultural Studies

Abstract

This study examines the perceived safety and health implications of consuming cassava products from oil spill-affected farms in Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria, specifically focusing on assessing the community’s concerns regarding potential health risks and the quality of cassava crops grown on contaminated lands. The study utilized a structured questionnaire, the Perceived Impact of Oil Spill on Cassava Production Questionnaire (IOSCPQ), was administered to 219 cassava farmers using purposive sampling. The instrument used included demographic information and a Likert scale to gauge opinions on health risks associated with consuming cassava from oil spill-affected farms. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation, facilitated by SPSS version 2023. The result revealed a significant correlation between oil spill occurrences and perceived health risks. It shows a positive correlation coefficient of 0.740 with a p-value of 0.501, significant at the 0.05 level which indicates a strong perception among community members that increased oil spills are directly associated with heightened health risks from consuming contaminated cassava. The study recommends immediate intervention by relevant authorities to mitigate oil spill effects through rigorous cleanup efforts and regular monitoring of soil and water quality. Additionally, there is need for public health campaign programs to educate the local communities on the dangers of consuming contaminated cassava and to promote alternative sources of safe food. Establishing support systems for affected farmers to transition to safer agricultural practices can also help alleviate the health risks posed by oil spill incidents.