Miracle Kelechukwu EZEANOCHIE

This study investigated the microbial source tracking of faecal bacterial pathogens in Ogba River, Benin City, Nigeria. Water samples collected from different locations were analyzed using standard cultural, morphological, Gram staining, and biochemical techniques. The isolates identified were Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus. E. coli and other Gram-negative rods indicated fecal contamination while S. aureus reflected anthropogenic input from human activities. Biochemical results confirmed the pathogenic potential of the isolates. The detection of these organisms demonstrates that Ogba River is contaminated with both human and animal wastes, posing serious public health risks. The result highlights the effectiveness of microbial source tracking in identifying contamination origins and emphasizes the need for regular water quality monitoring, improved sanitation, and proper waste management to prevent disease outbreaks and protect community health.