BIMA JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (2536-6041)

The Role of ICT in Curbing Electoral Fraud in Nigeria

Abba Jalo Muhammad — 2025-04-15

This study centered on preferences of electoral fraud as a major challenge to political development in Nigeria. An electoral fraud is an illegal interference with the process of election that interferes with the mandate of the people. The statement of the problem is the abuse of the democratic principle which has led to elections losing its capacity to determine who will represent the people. This development has resulted to the masses losing confidence in the democratic exercise and the morale to vote has been killed because of the “so or die” nature of elections. This study delves into the nature and character of electoral fraud in Nigeria. The study was guided by its objectives which state that, perception of the electoral fraud has impact on Nigerian elections, electoral fraud and electoral participation in Nigeria and political instability and social disorder in Nigeria resulting from electoral fraud. The focus of this study is to examine the role of ICT in preventing electoral fraud and investigate the ugly perfection of electoral fraud. The Marxist theory of the state was adopted as the theoretical framework and sources of data collected was mainly primary data and analysis using SPPS. This research concluded that the high rate of electoral fraud is adversely undermining the process of free and fair election. Finally, this study recommended that for a total consolidation of the nascent democracy in Nigeria all hands must be on deck to eliminate electoral fraud in Nigeria.

Proximate Analysis and Mineral Composition of the Lord's Apple Cinnamon Tea

Oscar Notoriuwa Aghedo — 2025-04-15

ABSTRACT

This study examines the proximate and mineral composition of Lord's Apple Cinnamon Tea, a functional beverage with health benefits from apple and cinnamon bioactive compounds. Apples contain flavonoids like quercetin, which reduce oxidative stress and improve lipid metabolism, while cinnamon provides cinnamaldehyde, which enhances insulin sensitivity and lowers blood glucose. The study aimed to assess the tea's nutritional profile through proximate and mineral analysis. The methodology involved the collection and preparation of tea samples, followed by mineral analysis using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (FAAS) and proximate analysis to determine moisture, ash, fiber, lipids, and protein content. The results showed high levels of potassium (191,496.7 mg/kg), sodium (28,997.67 mg/kg), and iron (7,500.01 mg/kg), along with trace elements like copper, zinc, magnesium, and manganese. Proximate analysis revealed fiber (68.92%), moisture (23.04%), ash (10.48%), lipids (8.48%), and protein (8.1%). These findings suggest the tea may support cardiovascular health, digestion, and antioxidant activity. It is recommended as part of a healthy diet, with further research needed to explore its long-term effects.

Exploring the Role of Reviving Decorative Motifs in Contemporary Hausa Traditional Architecture towards Preserving Cultural Identity: A Case Study of Gidan Shettima Kano Emirate Council

Bashir Umar Salim — 2025-04-15

Hausa decorative motifs are integral to the architectural and artistic heritage of the Hausa people. Traditional Hausa architecture faces challenges in maintaining cultural continuity amidst modern architectural practices that often overlook traditional elements. This study investigates the role of reviving decorative motifs in preserving cultural identity within Hausa traditional architecture, focusing on Gidan Shettima in the Kano Emirate Council. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving in-depth interviews with master builders, artisans, and cultural experts, alongside architectural analysis and visual documentation. The findings revealed that decorative motifs in Hausa architecture originated over 900 years ago, with primary types including Dagi (emblem/logo), Sarka (chain), and Zanen zayyana (calligraphy). These motifs have evolved with changes in materials and techniques but remain integral in preserving Hausa cultural identity. Key motifs like Sarka are prevalent in Gidan Shettima. The study underscores the importance of these decorative elements in maintaining cultural heritage. Recommendations include documentation and preservation efforts, training programs for artisans, community involvement, integrating modern and traditional techniques, policy development, and further research. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can ensure the continued celebration and preservation of Hausa cultural identity through architectural motifs.

Community-Engaged Architecture and Flooding Resilience for Lokoja, Nigeria

Allu-Kangkum E. L. A — 2025-04-15

ABSTRACT

The negative impact of climate change has disrupted our environment and the rapid growth of the urban built environment continues to increase the climate uncertainty and also increase the demand for resilience. In recent years there have been frequent flash floods and flooding in Nigeria and particularly in the built environment of Lokoja area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Therefore, buildings resilience and the local processes for architectural adaptation are necessary to avoid future catastrophic disasters. However, disaster prevention and resilience can only be effective when the human factor is considered and the processes for local resilience are harnessed for new architectural solutions based on community-engaged architecture. This literature review-based article is the first part of a two parts research with this being the theoretical discourse on the strategies for flooding resilience and adaptations in buildings. Whilst the second part would deal with identifying local strategies, proposed improved sustainable innovative strategies through community participation for the affected Lokoja communities. Literature suggests that, architecture is human centred, the built environment flooding resilience is attainable, community-engaged architecture and participatory processes are key to promoting acceptable sustainability in architectural practices.

Assessing the Causes of Defects in Heritage Building towards Safeguarding Cultural Heritage in Hausaland Milieu: A Case Study of Nasarawa Palace, Kano

Bashir Umar Salim — 2025-04-15

Nasarawa Palace is a heritage building of mud architecture, embodying intricate artistic expression, craftsmanship reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Kano people. Currently, the palace is undergoing deterioration and transformation. Hence, this study aimed at examining the causes of defect influencing the Nasarawa Palace. Case study design approach was involved as a strategy in achieving the research aim, whereby purposive sampling technique was engaged in eliciting data from the palace stakeholders through semi-structured interviews. Photos, voice record and observation were also conducted during the fieldwork. It was found that, the frontline causes of building defects in the Nasarawa Palace are related to heavy rainfall which causes waterlog, deterioration and minor flooding. Secondly, the findings revealed that, Nasarawa Palace had undergone significant changes from its initial traditional construction to the shift towards the use of modern materials. In conclusion, the transformation of the Nasarawa Palace is shaped by a combination of cultural, economic, governmental, community-driven factors. The study recommends professionals in the building industry including architects and engineers to take cognisance of preserving and reviving cultural identity when embarking on heritage buildings of traditional architecture. Hence, this paper recommends for further research to ascertain the level of awareness of cultural significances to professionals in royal palaces of Northern Nigeria.

Integrated Geophysical Technique for Characterization of Sedimentary Aquifers of Ankpa, Part of Northern Anambra Basin, Nigeria

Akpah, Fabian A — 2025-04-15

This research focused on addressing the need for potable water supply in semi - rural communities through effective groundwater exploration. The study concentrates on the Ankpa Area, within the Northern Anambra Basin in North Central Nigeria. To achieve this, a combined approach utilizing Geomagnetic Very Low-Frequency Electromagnetic (VLF-EM) and Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) methods were employed. Forty-five (45) locations were subjected to geophysical survey using the DDR3 Terrameter for VES measurements and the ADMT 300 VLF-EM machine. The VES method, employing Schlumberger electrode configuration, was used to investigate variations in subsurface resistivity within depths ranging from 1 to 200 meters. The collected field data underwent meticulous processing and analysis via WinResist software, resulting in a 1D graph that depicts variations in subsurface layer resistivity. The VLF-EM method was applied to map electromagnetic field variations attributable to shifts in geological formations and groundwater presence. By utilizing the ADMT 300 VLF-EM machine, comprehensive data collection across the study area enabled the creation of a 2D subsurface graph. The integration of these two distinct methodologies culminated in a holistic understanding of subsurface structure, significantly enhancing the precision of potential groundwater-bearing zone identification. The outcomes of the study divulged the presence of 5 to 6 geoelectric layers, encompassing topsoil, lateritic soil, clay, sandstone, and shale. These layers exhibited resistivity values spanning from 42.6 Ωm to 100,000.0 Ωm with an average resistivity value of 10352.25Ωm, accompanied by thickness measurements ranging from approximately 0.5 meters to 93.2 meters with an average thickness of 34 meters. The integrated use of VLF-EM and VES methods in the investigation has revealed the potential for groundwater exploration in the study area average to slightly high.

Evaluation of Vickers Micro Hardness of Solution Heat Treated (SHT) Al6061/2%Gr/0-6%Al₂O₃ Composites for Piston Applications

Achakpo George Chukwuemeka — 2025-04-15

This research seeks to evaluate the Vickers micro hardness of Solution Heat Treated (SHT) Al6061/2%Gr/0-6% Al₂O₃ composites, and delve into their prospect for piston applications. Al₂O₃ was used as reinforcement in Al6061/Gr composites to improve mechanical properties. Solution heat treatment was carried out at different temperatures (400°C, 500°C, 600°C) and durations (1, 1.5, 2 hours), followed by ageing at varying temperatures (150°C, 175°C, 200°C) and durations (2, 4, 6 hours). The factors and optimal levels were identified using Minitab Results. The Taguchi L9 Orthogonal Array in Minitab was run using the factors and levels. The hardness properties were evaluated through Vickers micro hardness tester. After completing the experiments, the measured values for each trial of the hardness were entered into Minitab. Then the S/N ratios were analyzed in Minitab via Analyze Taguchi Design sub-menu and selecting the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) response option for the desired outcome of Vickers hardness. The S/N ratio type was set to "Larger-the-Better" for hardness. The Minitab was used to output the mean S/N ratios for each level of each factor and the highest S/N ratio for each factor, which represents the optimal level for that factor, was identified and interpreted. The results reveal significant improvements in hardness with higher Al₂O₃ content, and thus offer insights into their suitability for high-stress applications, such as pistons.

Detection of Opportunistic Fungal Pathogens in HIV/AIDS Patients Attending HIV Clinic, Federal Medical Centre Azare, Bauchi State Nigeria

Haladu Ali Gagman — 2025-04-15

Opportunistic fungal infections are common in immunocompromised HIV patients, yet their impact in Bauchi, northeastern Nigeria, is understudied. The objective of this study was to detect and identify opportunistic fungal pathogens among HIV patients and to assess their risk factors. The study involved 385 HIV patients with opportunistic fungal infections symptoms, where urine, blood, and sputum samples were examined. Pathogens were isolated on potato dextrose agar, and standardized questionnaires were distributed to the patients to gather information on possible infection risk factors. Chi-square, univariate, and multiple logistic regression analyses examined relationships between the variables. The prevalence of opportunistic fungal infections among HIV patients was 25.71%. Out of the total positive urine samples, 38 (66.6%), 5 (8.7%), and 14 (24.5%) were Candida spp Cryptococcus spp, and Aspergillus spp, respectively. In blood samples, 42.9%, 16.7%, and 40.5% were positive for these fungi, but all sputum samples were negative. The presence of birds dropping and patients not on antiretroviral therapy (ART) were significantly associated with opportunistic fungal infections. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that HIV patients residing in areas with birds dropping are 62 times more likely to develop opportunistic fungal infections compared to those without such exposure [AOR (95% CI): 61.965 (18.258–210.306)]. HIV patients not on antiretroviral therapy (ART) were at 98 times higher risk of developing opportunistic fungal infections than those on ART [AOR (95% CI): 98.475 (33.437–290.016)]. The study found Candida spp Cryptococcus spp, and Aspergillus spp in clinical samples, with Candida spp being the most common among immunocompromised individuals. Aspergillus spp and Cryptococcus spp, were less common. Furthermore, the study highlighted that the major infection risk factors were HIV patients not on antiretroviral therapy (ART), residing in areas with bird droppings and viral load.

Power System Optimization Using Hybrid Heuristic Search Algorithm

Busari A. I admin — 2025-04-15

This research introduces a hybrid optimization algorithm integrating Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Greedy Algorithm for microgrid load prediction and operational control. The approach leverages GA's global exploration capabilities to identify potential configurations and applies the Greedy Algorithm for local refinement, addressing challenges such as slow convergence and suboptimal solutions. Real-world load data is utilized to evaluate the method's performance across forecasting accuracy, operational cost reduction, system reliability, and computational efficiency. Metrics like Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) validate the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid approach. Results demonstrate that the algorithm significantly improves load forecasting precision and microgrid control performance compared to traditional methods. By optimizing energy management and incorporating renewable energy sources, this method enhances sustainability, reliability, and efficiency, establishing itself as a viable solution for modern microgrid systems. This study contributes to advancing hybrid heuristic algorithms for power system optimization.

Bioelectricity Generation from Plantain Peel Waste using Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a Low-Cost Microbial Fuel Cell

Oyedoh Eghe Amenze — 2025-04-15

This study investigates the potential of using plantain peel waste as a substrate in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) for bioelectricity generation. Saccharomyces cerevisiae was employed as the microbial inoculum, while kaolinite clay combined with starch was used to fabricate a cost-effective proton exchange membrane (PEM). The performance of the microbial fuel cell was monitored over a period of 13 days, during which a steady generation of electricity was observed, including current and voltage readings of 0.903 mA and 0.42 V; and 0.03 mA and 0.47 V on days 1 and 13 respectively. The maximum current density, power density, and voltage density were recorded as 1157 mA/m², 527.62 mW/m², and 289.5 V/m², respectively. The study demonstrated that plantain peel waste is a suitable substrate for electricity generation, and the clay-starch membrane functioned effectively as a proton exchange membrane, albeit with limited viability. This experiment also showcased the feasibility of creating a low-cost microbial fuel cell using locally available materials, which provides a potential avenue for sustainable and economically viable bioelectricity production to meet future electricity needs.

Effects of Pb and Cr Accumulation on the Growth Performance of Some Local Rice Varieties from North-Eastern Nigeria

Kelly Nformi Mukeng — 2025-04-15

Rice is an important cereal crop and foods for many population which utilizes certain concentration of heavy metals as source of nutrient. Heavy metals contamination and food safety are global issues that requires attention. Nigeria local rice varieties; Mai-kaya, Jamila and Mai-kwalli were evaluated for effective agronomic response and phyto-extraction of Pb and Cr. The rice seeds grown in paddy farm for three weeks and transplanted to pots for heavy metals accumulation studies. 500 ppm of Cr and Pb were prepared and use to water the rice at its different concentrations (100mL, 200mL, 300mL, 400mL and 500mL). Growth parameters including root and leaf development were determine both in the field and after transplanting at 2-weeks intervals. The concentration of the heavy metals in dried sample of both rice organs and soil was determined by acid digestion and analyze using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The growing plant in various Pb and Cr concentrations was found to produced root number at a range of 60.00 ± 2.00 to 38.33 ± 2.51, root length range of 11.43 ± 0.35 to 5.06 ± 0.20, fresh weight of 0.99 ± 0.01 to 0.40 ± 0.00 and dry weight of 0.85±0.17 to 0.13±0.00. Jamila was recorded with optimum plant height of 43.33, followed by Mai-kwalli with 38.33 after two weeks of treatment with Cr 100mg/Kg. For the phyto-extraction, Jamila and Mai-kaya demonstrate optimal Cr accumulation in their seeds and soil across all the concentrations. Jamila rice was found to be highly adaptive to various heavy metals concentration than Maikaya and Maikwalli. However, the the Pb and Cr values detected in the present study are beyond permissible limit. The maximum allowable limit for Pb is 300 µg/kg, while for the Cr is 0.2mg/kg.

Hybrid Ransomeware Detection using Catboost and Random Forest Algorithm

Dauda M — 2025-04-15

Numerous threats to cybersecurity, such as ransomware, malware, spyware, Wannacry, and Cryptolocker assaults continue to cause significant damage to servers, computer systems, and web applications owned by different organizations across the globe. These safety issues are critical and need to be resolved right away. To ensure prompt response and prevention, ransomware detection and classification are essential. The RF algorithms classifiers and CatBoost feature selection are deployed in this work to identify and categorize ransomware assaults. This method entails examining ransomware behavior and identifying important features that can be applied to distinguish between various malware families. The algorithms' efficiency in precisely identifying and categorizing ransomware is demonstrated when they are tested on a ransomware detection dataset used in this study, which has 62,485 samples overall, was gathered from Kaggle, incidents of ransomware attacks and achieved a result of 99.80% accuracy. These findings indicate that the RF Classifiers and CatBoost classifier can accurately distinguish between various ransomware incidents, thereby providing a useful tool to aid cybersecurity.

Ameliorative effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Sawdust Effluent-induced physiological stress in Heteroclarias

Abdulkareem S. I. — 2025-04-15

The release of sawdust effluent into the aquatic environment increases turbidity and induces oxidative stress in fish. This study investigated the ameliorative effects of stresses induced by sawdust effluent in Heteroclarias. Juveniles of Heteroclarias were exposed to lethal concentrations (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 g/l) of sawdust effluent for 96 h and fed on turmeric (0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 2.5%) for 30 days. After exposure periods, the 96 h LC₅₀was 3.1g/l, blood and organs were collected for hematological and biochemical assays. Activities of Alanine aminotransferase (ALT); Aspartate aminotransferase (AST); Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH); Acetylcholinesterase (AChE); Superoxide dismutase (SOD); Catalase (CAT); Glutathione peroxidase (GPX); melanodehydehyde (MDA), total protein and glucose increased (P < 0.05) in Group F compared to control Group A. The red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocytes, and platelets decreased (P < 0.05) as the concentration of toxicant increased. However, enzyme activities and haematological levels revealed a gradual reduction and increase in Groups C, D & E fed 1%, 2%, and 2.5% turmeric respectively. While a great reduction and elevation (P < 0.05) was, observed in Group B fed 0.5% turmeric respectively. This implies that 0.5% turmeric supplementation in diet is capable of minimizing oxidative stress in sawdust-exposed-Heteroclarias.

Spatial Identification of high-risk level of HIV/AIDS in Karu LGA using spatial Autocorrelation and Kriging interpolation

Bulus Ezekiel Awhigbo — 2025-04-15

To appropriately serve humanity better, the need to distribute the limited resources correctly to the needed persons and location remain nonnegotiable in our present dispensation. Indeed, it became very expedient to sort for means of allocating these minimum resources to the needy against all odds. The study seeks to identify communities with severe cases of HIV virus across Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and communities at high risk of HIV/AIDS. The study used secondary data from the Karu Medical center Mararaba, which covered a period of ten (10) years, from 2013 to 2023. The study used Moran’s I Statistics, Kriging Model and Semivariogram model, and ArcGIS software was used to analyzed the data. The finding shows that the Moran’s I statistics recorded a positive value of 0.026684, z-score of 5.880192 and p-value 0.0000 which is statistically significant. The spatial autocorrelation flattens out at 0.817 by the semivariogram and Kriging model predicts communities at high risk of HIV/AIDS. This study conclude that resources should be allocated to the identified communities and alongside intervention program such as campaign programs and medical outreach to stop further prevalence of this virus.

Evaluation of Rheological Properties of Cashew Nutshell Liquid Superplasticizer with Portland Cement

Ogunbode Ezekiel Babatunde — 2025-04-15

This study investigates the rheological performance of Portland cement paste modified with a novel bio-based superplasticizer synthesized from cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL), an agro-industrial byproduct rich in phenolic compounds. The use of bio-derived admixtures is gaining attention in sustainable construction practices, offering a greener alternative to conventional petrochemical-based additives. In this work, the synthesized CNSL-based superplasticizer (CNSL-SP) was evaluated for its effectiveness in enhancing the flow behaviour of cement paste across various water-to-cement (w/c) ratios ranging from 0.2 to 0.4. Rheological properties were measured using a Brookfield CAP 1000+ viscometer under different shear rates, and CNSL-SP was dosed at concentrations between 0.5% and 3.0% by weight of cement. The results demonstrate a consistent decrease in shear stress with increasing CNSL-SP content, indicating improved dispersion and workability of the cement paste. The most effective dosage was observed between 1% and 2%, where the reduction in yield stress was substantial without compromising paste stability. At higher dosages, particularly beyond 2%, over-fluidity and potential segregation were observed, especially at elevated w/c ratios. These findings highlight the potential of CNSL-SP as a sustainable and cost-effective superplasticizer for concrete technology, particularly in regions with abundant cashew production. Moreover, the results provide a foundation for further investigations into the long-term mechanical performance and durability characteristics of CNSL-modified concrete. The use of renewable resources such as CNSL for performance-enhancing admixtures aligns with the broader goals of green engineering and environmentally conscious construction practices.

Implementation of Wireless Sensor Network in Precision Irrigation and Fertilization

Chiagunye Theodore T — 2025-04-15

This research explores the design and implementation of an Internet of Things (IoT) based system for precision irrigation and fertilization in greenhouse environments. By integrating ESP32 microcontrollers with soil moisture, temperature, and Nitrogen potassium and phosphorus (NPK) sensors, the system enables real-time monitoring and automation of irrigation and nutrient management. The system collects and transmits sensor data to a central platform via Wi-Fi, allowing users to access real-time information through a web-based interface. Automated irrigation is achieved through solenoid valves, which adjust water flow based on soil moisture levels, while fertilization suggestions are provided when nutrient deficiencies are detected in the soil. To evaluate the system's accuracy and reliability, the sensor data was compared with manual measurements obtained using conventional methods. The results showed high accuracy, with soil moisture readings differing by no more than 5% from manual measurements, and soil temperature readings within a 1% range. The NPK sensor data showed a slight discrepancy of 10-15% for nitrogen and phosphorus levels, which is acceptable for soil nutrient testing, with potassium levels showing greater accuracy (within 5%). The research demonstrates the potential of IoT systems to improve greenhouse management by enhancing resource efficiency, enabling precise environmental control, and providing actionable insights for optimal plant growth. The results are consistent with previous studies on IoT-based agricultural systems, further supporting the feasibility of this technology for modernizing greenhouse farming. The project suggests opportunities for further refinement, including advanced machine learning for improved data analysis and sensor calibration.

Molecular Detection and Prevalence of Bacterial Pathogens Associated with Ear-Nasal-Throat (ENT) in Patients Attending Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria

Mustapha Abba — 2025-04-15

Ear, nose, and throat infections represent a significant public health issue in developing countries including Nigeria, resulting in a considerable burden of illness and economic strain on patients, families, and the healthcare system. Studies on the molecular information of bacterial pathogens associated with Ear-Nasal-Throat (ENT) in Northwest particularly in Kano is limited. This study aimed to determine the Molecular detection and prevalence of bacterial pathogens associated with Ear-Nasal-Throat (ENT) in patient attending Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Kano (AKTH). A total of 384 samples from patients with ENT infections were collected at AKTH using sterilized swab sticks and cultured on Chocolate and MacConkey agar. Pathogens were identified through Gram staining, biochemical tests, and molecular methods. A questionnaire gathered demographic data on age and gender, and a chi-square test assessed the significance of associations between the variables. The overall prevalence of ENT in this study was 17.0%. The most common pathogen identified was Staphylococcus aureus (30.8%), followed by Providencia stuartii (23.1%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (20.0%), Escherichia coli (18.5%), Serratia marcescens (6.2%), and Haemophilus influenzae (1.5%). Females had a higher prevalence of ENT infections (19.0%) compared to males (14.4%), though not statistically significant (χ2 = 1.482, p = 0.223). The age group 21-30 had the highest prevalence at 27.3%, while those aged 31-50 had the lowest at 11.3%. A significant association was found between infections and age group (p < 0.05; χ2 = 10.244, p = 0.037). The current study indicates that the prevalence of bacterial pathogens associated with ear, nasal, and throat infections is moderate in the study area. This finding shows that infections of the ears, nose, and throat are still common, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to eradicate these pathogens and improve public health.