Vol. 9, Issue 1, Part C (2023)

Abstract
This study investigated the Health risk assessment and heavy metal levels in tissues (gill, bone, muscle and liver) of Trachurus murphyi and Clupea harengus purchased from Anyigba main market, Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria. Three (3) samples each of Trichurus murphi and Clupea harengus species were used. Heavy metal analysis was done using a Virian Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results obtained were subjected to descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (ANOVA) statistics. Means were separated using Duncan multiple range Test (DMRT). Statistical Analysis system (SAS) version 9.0 portable was used. The grand mean concentration of metals determined ranged from 3.29±0.5–34.55±5.56 mgkg-1. The metals determined were Pb, Cd, Hg, Cu and Ni with grand mean concentrations of 22.34±3.79, 7.15±1.24, 7.21±2.6, 34.55±5.56 and 3.29±0.5 (mgkg^-1) respectively for Trichurus murphi. While, in Clupea harengus, the grand mean concentration of metals determined for Pb, Cd, Hg, Cu and Ni were 23.21±3.39, 2.94±0.13, 1.58±1.02, 18.88±1.04 and 2.28±0.05 (mgkg^-1) respectively. The concentration of metals was in this order: Copper >Lead >Cadmium>Mecury>Nickel. Result revealed that all the metals determined were above the maximum allowable limits set by regulatory bodies. Hence, there is need to enlighten people on the need to reduce anthropogenic activities leading to excessive presence of heavy metals in our water bodies.