Activation lock on an iPad mini

Here is information about Activation Lock and the procedures to unlock your iPad:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201365

Unless you are the owner of the AppleID that was last used to activate the device, or unless you can secure the cooperation of the previous owner, you’ll not be able to defeat or bypass the Activation Lock. Without documentary evidence that you are the original owner (such as sales receipt showing the serial number), Apple won’t assist.

Sorry, not the news that you were likely hoping for, but your acquired iPad is of no use to you.

it's a theft protection

so I would not hold my breath

you can try their support https://getsupport.apple.com/