Can't get through endless loop of Apple Id locked after successful log in - HELP

I posted this a couple of days ago but my subscription filters show nothing was posted, so the frustration continues.

I have an Apple ID and trying to set up iPad Pro 5th Gen.

IOS 17.3.1

When I open the Ipad with my passcode, a popup appears for me to "Enter Apple Id password in Settings"

My options are Settings or Not Now. When I select Settings, the only thing to do is setup Face Id. So I did that.

Then I get another popup with same message "Enter Apple Id password in Settings" and this time I select Not Now.

Then a red circle appears on the settings menu indicating "Some account services require you to sign in again", Only option is Continue.

When I select Continue, I am asked for my Apple Id password, and then get a popup "Verification Failed. ID or Password incorrect". I selected Ok, then Cancel.

Go to the App Store, popup requires Apple Id Password, then after I put that in, I get the message "Apple Id locked" and I can "Unlock account". Only I can't. I end up getting a code via text, then via email, then I am forced to create a NEW password. But then I can't get logged in with the new password, it just keeps looping through this Verification failed/account Id locked/Unlock account loop....I'm ready to pull my hair out!!!!

So THEN, I go to the Apple Id site from Safari ON the iPad. I am able to log in without issue. I added a payment method, thinking maybe THIS has something to do with the App Store (even though the App I am desperately needing is FREE).

Everything looks good on the Apple Id site so I go back to the App Store now and end up getting the same message "Apple Id locked" and I can "Unlock Account"........sigh

Please help - this is making me nuts - this was my Mom's IPad and I have very little experience with Apple products.