Prevalence of Erythrophleum suaveolens (Brenan Plant) Usage in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja – Nigeria

Abstract

Erythrophleum suaveolens is locally described as a poisonous plant, but still been used in the control of pest of cereals. It exhibits antifungal, medicinal properties and the seeds have essential oil. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence, and usage of this plant in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria. Questionnaires were used in gathering information to study the plant with respect to its uses, parts used, preparation and prevalence. Regional survey studies show an abundance of plants in parts of Abuja. The study also shows that the leave part of the plant is largely used for pesticidal purpose. The correlation between the perceptions of the respondents on the use of the plant were statistically significant, (χ2 [2; n = 100] = 25.93; p< 0.05), with a strong strength of association (Phi=0.509, Cramer’s V=0.509, p<0.05). The correlation of the perceptions of the respondents on the plant prevalence were also found to be statistically significant, (χ2 [2; n = 100] = 44.444; p< 0.05), and the strength of relationship between the variables were strong (Phi=0.667, Cramer’s V=0.667, p<0.05). This study conclusively shows the plants prevalence in FCT as a plant for pest management