Soil samples from ten locations within the town were sampled and assessed for pH, organic matter, nitrates, phosphates and some trace metals (zinc, lead, cadmium, copper and chromium) during two dry seasons. Results of the analysis indicate mean pH values to range between 6.20 - 7.10, organic matter content was observed to range between 2.39 - 4.74 (%). The mean nitrate content of the soil was observed to range between 10.07- 67.62 (mgKg- 1). Phosphate content was found to range between 0.90 - 7.26 (mgKg-1). The mean levels of zinc in the soil was found to range between 0.24 -1.12 (mgKg-1) and 0.35 - 2.60 (mgKg-1) for the first and second year respectively. Lead levels in the soil during the first dry season ranged between 0.01-0.19 (mgKg-1), while in the second dry season, the means values obtained, ranged between 0.06-0.18 (mgKg-1). A range of 0.0 - 0.36 (mgKg-1) was observed for Cd in the first dry season and 0.02 - 0.05 (mgKg-1) was during the second dry season. 0.06–0.15 (mgKg-1) and 0.05-0.29 (mgKg-1) were observed for copper in the first and second dry seasons respectively. Chromium levels ranged between 0.03-0.10 (mgKg-1) and 0.05-0.17 (mgKg-1) in the first and second dry seasons respectively. The results indicate high accumulation of nitrates and phosphate in farmlands than in mechanic workshops and commercial areas. Among the heavy metals determined, zinc was found to be highest in all cases. The results of the study indicate that soils on the bank of the river are more susceptible to pollution than mechanic workshops and commercial areas, since the river bank act as a reservoir for sedimentation of most pollutants.
