activation lock

If you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the Activation Lock if provided the required paperwork. Either take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened)

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.    

or contact Apple ID Support. 

 Apple ID - Official Apple Support.    

Contact Apple for help with Apple ID account security - Apple Support.  (Link doesn’t always load)   

Get Support      Work through the screens to get a chat option. 

Apple Support schedule phone call

https://twitter.com/AppleSupport       People have posted it may take an hour or more to get a response.

Activation Lock is a theft deterrent feature with no bypass or workaround.

Without the owner's authorisation (Apple ID & password), no thief or anyone including you can re-use the device.