How to remove iCloud?

Lawrence Finch wrote:

I wonder if this is an Activation Lock question?

Quite possibly. if so…

To clear an Activation Lock, you will need the password of the associated Apple ID, or the original purchase receipt and matching photo ID and a discussion with Apple Support. If this device was recently purchased and the seller is still available, contact the seller for remediation or for refund. A remote unlock using iCloud is available to the person with the Apple ID holding an Activation Lock, if they’re inclined to unlock this device.

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Activation Lock is a theft deterrent mechanism. A theft deterrent that is easy to bypass would not be much of a deterrent. No, nobody here in the Apple discussion forums can help you clear Activation Lock. Only the previous owner, or Apple, can clear this lock. For Apple to clear the lock, you will have to provide a receipt with proof of original purchase and with matching serial number, and provide matching personal identification, or similar materials.

And as purchasing devices with Activation Lock is far too common, also see the following:

The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying a Used iPad/iPhone

iCloud is built into iPhone. you can choose to use or not use iCloud services, but there is no means to remove iCloud from iPhone.

If you are not interested in using or wish to discontinue specific iCloud services, which ones?

This a user-to-user technical support forum. If you have a question or issue that you think another user can help you with please describe it in as much detail as you can and a user who sees your request and thinks they can help will answer, but that might not be immediate; it could be hours or days later. 

Here is some guidance on how to get the most out of ASC→Writing an effective Apple Support Communities post

I wonder if this is an Activation Lock question?