'Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch' is a security feature that's designed to prevent anyone else from using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, if it's ever lost or stolen. To learn more click here --> http://support.apple.com/HT201365
For an individual to remove an activation lock absolutely requires the information for the account that applied the lock. Click on this link to learn 'How to remove Activation Lock' --> https://support.apple.com/HT201441
Here are additional resources:
Help with a lost Apple ID or password:
• "If you forgot your Apple ID" [this is likely an email address you are using or used in the past] click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201354
• "If you forgot your Apple ID password" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT201487
If you cannot recover the information and since you were not hte original owner there is nothing you can do other than recycle the device.