author(s)
Iwunze JI and Amaechi AA

abstract
To assess Current pest management practices, health impact and pesticide safety by farmers in Obowo, Imo State a cross sectional study was conducted using a structural questionnaire and focal group discussion. Results indicated that chemical practice (76.0%) was the current pest management adopted by the farmers. Notably, 69.0% do not consider any pesticide use pattern. Nearly 36.0% of the participants follow the product label 29.0% uses protective clothing as safety practice to prevent pesticide exposure. Forty nine (49.0%) were of the view that pesticide affect human health, (38.0%) affirmed that it affect livestock while (13.0%) had it that it affect the environment. This study highlighted a need for immediate implementation of strict pesticide use regulations and recommended educational programs for pest control professionals, growers, and pesticide retailers. In addition, there is a need to inform farmers about integrated pest management to prevent severe health complications, which may occur as a result of unsafe and inappropriate use of pesticides.