Former Ghanaian boxer Michael Nii Ayitey Okai, popularly known as Ayitey Powers, has appeared before the Dansoman Circuit Court over an alleged death threat against the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.
The case follows the circulation of a social media video in which Ayitey Powers was allegedly heard making a threat against the NSA Director-General.
According to reports on the case, the Accra Regional Police Command arrested Ayitey Powers on August 24, 2026, after the video came to the attention of the authorities.
The former boxer was subsequently put before the Dansoman Circuit Court on August 25 and charged with threat of death. He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The court ordered that he be remanded for one week, with the case scheduled for a further appearance on September 2, 2026, as investigations continued.
What Led to the Case?
The case stems from a video circulated on social media in which Ayitey Powers was allegedly seen threatening Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.
The prosecution told the court that police intercepted the video on August 18, after which the NSA Director-General lodged a complaint.
Police subsequently arrested Ayitey Powers, saying the action was taken amid concerns over public safety and security.
Reports from the court proceedings indicate that Ayitey Powers admitted making the statement in his caution statement but explained that the comments were made out of anger.
Dispute With NSA Authorities
The development comes against the backdrop of a longstanding disagreement between Ayitey Powers and authorities over the cancellation of a boxing event he was promoting.
Ayitey Powers has previously claimed that he suffered significant financial losses after boxing activities were suspended ahead of his planned event.
The disagreement has generated exchanges between the former boxer and the NSA leadership, although the two sides were also seen publicly engaging in what was described as a peace-building gesture earlier this year.
Boxing Body Calls for Action
The Ghana Boxing Interim Management Committee (GBIMC) previously condemned the alleged threat and called on the Ghana Police Service to investigate and take appropriate action.
The committee also announced disciplinary proceedings against Ayitey Powers, meaning the matter could have consequences beyond the ongoing criminal proceedings.
Bukom Banku Appeals for Forgiveness
Former Ghanaian boxer Braimah Kamoko, popularly known as Bukom Banku, has subsequently appealed to Yaw Ampofo Ankrah to forgive Ayitey Powers.
Bukom Banku acknowledged the seriousness of the alleged comments while appealing for leniency and reconciliation between the two men.
Ayitey Powers has also reportedly apologised to the NSA Director-General, saying the remarks were made in anger.
Case Remains Before the Court
Ayitey Powers remains an accused person in the case, and the allegation has not been determined by the court.
The latest court proceedings form part of an ongoing legal process, with the police continuing investigations into the alleged threat.
GhanaMedia.net will update this report as further information from the court or the authorities becomes available.
