A nine year old iPad is not going to be very useful, and will not run many current apps, and cannot be updated to current iPadOS.
Generally…
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. 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 person holding the lock, 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.