Gbese Mantse, Nii Ayi-Bonte II, a former Hearts of Oak executive has died.
According to reports, the late Gbese Mantse, Nii Ayi-Bonte II, died after a short illness.
Reports suggest that the Gbese Mantse passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
He was known as Thomas Okine in his private life.
The late Gbese Mantse’s death comes two days after he took part in traditional activities marking the lifting of the ban on drumming and noise-making ahead of the Homowo Festival.
ClassFM sharing update about the Gbese Mantse stated, “Nii Ayi-Bonte II was well known in Ghanaian football circles for his association with Accra Hearts of Oak during one of the club’s most successful periods.
He served in a leadership role as the club enjoyed domestic dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s and strengthened its reputation on the African continent.
Installed as Gbese Mantse in 2007, Nii Ayi-Bonte II combined traditional leadership with a career in business. An accountant by profession, he founded Lifetime Pharmacy Limited and Savemart Company Limited.
He also served on the Judicial Committees of the Ga Traditional Council and the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, and was a commissioner of the Greater Accra Regional Lands Commission.
Beyond football, he was involved in professional boxing and managed former world champion Joseph Agbeko while supporting the promotion of boxing events in Ghana.
Nii Ayi-Bonte II is remembered for his contributions to traditional leadership, sports administration and community development, as well as his longstanding connection with Hearts of Oak”.
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