Hazardous earth processes in parts of Bauchi State, Nigeria: Their causes and environmental implications

Abstract

The August 1985 crack has focussed attention on passive earth processes in parts of Bauchi State, Nigeria. These processes, encompassing groundwater solution and roof collapse, soil shrink-swell, and gullying, are widespread in the Akko, Gombe, and Bauchi Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State. Soils in these areas are rich in montmorillonite clay minerals and possess appreciable shrink-swell capabilities. Surface heave ranges from 8.1 to 11 cm. Preliminary data on plasticity measurement show a plasticity index (PI) of 13.4 to 15%. Consequently, in response to seasonal changes, the soil usually splits, leaving gaping cracks. These cracks, once formed, constitute channels throug which meteoric water easily penetrates the bedrock. The water is chemically acid and the underlying bedrock contains layers of limestone and shale. Systematic solution of these chemically reactive rocks results in the formation of caverns, the roof of which may ultimately collapse leaving randomly distributed sink holes. These cracks and sink holes run through villages, destroying mud buildings, which often collapse overnight, and transforming most modern block buildings into death traps. They affect roads, bridges, and other foundations, and render farmlands waste, swallowing up livestock.

The expansive soil processes, solution and roof collapse phenomena currently identified in these places, are passive phenomena and have been overlooked as geologic hazards. Preliminary results of investigations on the physical and chemical properties of the soils and underlying rocks indicate that these areas of Bauchi State of Nigeria need to be monitored closely to avert disaster.