You may have run into the activation lock. The message doesn't seem like the typical one. Get your proof of purchase and take it to the apple store.
Or try these.
Restore to factory settings by loading the latest version of ios that your machine will support:
Do a full backup of your device. Twice is best -- cloud and computer.
"You can use iTunes to restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to factory settings and the latest version of iOS."
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1414?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US
"You can put your iOS device into recovery mode, then restore it using iTunes.:
http://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201263
At last resort you could consider DFU (Device Firmware Update). This could void your warranty.
http://www.imore.com/tip-put-iphone-ipad-dfu-mode
nsdjoey explains how to force a reload of ios
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/7067914