Former Hearts of Oak executive and Gbese Mantse, Nii Ayi-Bonte II, has died after a short illness.

The traditional ruler, known in private life as Thomas Okine, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

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.

His 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. During the event, he was carried through parts of Gbese by his subjects.

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.