A Geophysical Frontier For Investigating Aquifer Depth Variations Caused By Santonia Deformational Event In Umuoha, Umuoma Nzerem Autonomous Community, Ehime Mbano L.G.A, Imo State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64137/3108-088X/IJAES-V1I2P101Keywords:
Nzerem, Santonian Deformation, Cementation, Shale Formation, Aquifer Vulnerability, Diagenesis, HydrogeologyAbstract
This study investigates the subsurface characteristics of Umuoha Village, Umuoma Nzerem, located in Ehime-Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, with emphasis on the geological factors influencing aquifer quality and distribution. Drilling observations and geoelectrical interpretations revealed the dominance of shale-rich, cemented sandstone formations that produced cement-like, powdery cuttings. This behaviour is linked to natural diagenetic cementation and compaction processes rather than anthropogenic contamination. The lithified layers are interpreted as products of tectonic deformation and post-depositional alteration associated with the Santonian orogeny, which profoundly reshaped the structural and stratigraphic architecture of the region. The formations encountered reflect alternating shale and sandstone units with varying degrees of cementation, resulting in heterogeneous aquifer conditions. Shale units act as aquitards, restricting vertical groundwater movement, while interbedded sandstone layers provide moderate aquifer potential. The structural complexity created by the Santonian deformation further influences fluid flow, groundwater storage, and aquifer vulnerability. These findings highlight the importance of understanding tectono-sedimentary controls on groundwater occurrence in southeastern Nigeria. Effective groundwater development in the area will require careful borehole siting, consideration of cemented zones, and integrated geological–geophysical characterization to avoid low-yielding horizons and ensure sustainable water supply.
References
[1] M. Hoque, “Petrographic Differentiation of Tectonically Controlled Cretaceous Sedimentary Cycles, Southeastern Nigeria,” Sedimentary Geology, vol. 17, no. 3–4, pp. 235–245, Apr. 1977, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/0037-0738(77)90047-1.
[2] R. C. Murat, “Stratigraphy and Palaeogeography of the Cretaceous and Lower Tertiary in southeastern Nigeria,” In T. F. J. Dessauvagie & A. J. Whiteman (Eds.), African Geology, Ibadan University Press, pp. 251-266, 1972.
[3] S. O. Nwachukwu, “The Tectonic Evolution of the Southern Portion of the Benue Trough, Nigeria,” Geological Magazine, vol. 109, no. 5, pp. 411–419, Sep. 1972, doi: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0016756800039790.
[4] R.Oghonyon et al., “Interpretation of Resistivity Attributes for Groundwater Prospecting in Abuja Campus, University of Port Harcourt,” International Journal of Engineering Research and Development, vol. 21, no. 9, pp. 159-162, 2025.
[5] Oghonyon Rorome et al., “Interpretation of Resistivity Subsurface Models in Isele-Mkpiteme,” International Journal of Research in Engineering, Science and Management, vol. 7, no. 6, pp. 63–68, 2024.
[6] R. A.Reyment, Aspects of the Geology of Nigeria, Ibadan University Press, pp. 1-144, 1965.
[7] O.Rorome et al., “Interpretation of Leachate Contaminant Along the Department of Student Affairs, University of Port Harcourt,” The International Journal of Engineering and Science (IJES), vol. 14, no. 11, pp. 48-57, 2025.
