Lens locked at minimum aperture, but still getting message

I'm still get the message that I need to lock the aperture, even though I have. I'm using a Tokina 35 - 300mm and s Nikon D3200. Have I done something wrong?

Is it possible that you've confused the inverse relation of aperture numbers and aperture sizes? An aperture of f4.5 (at 35mm) and an aperture of f6.7 (300mm) are the maximum (largest opening) apertures on your lens. An aperture of f16 or f22 or f32 would be the minimum (smallest opening) aperture on your lens.

This lens has a minimum aperture of f/32, make sure that is the position you have the lens at. There's also a locking switch with this lens, and it may have to be locked for it to meter on your camera. Otherwise, you can use the lens in Manual exposure mode.

Also, you do realize you can't autofocus this lens with your camera…

You are using an old, old Tokina lens. It is not even listed in the Tokina archives.

I know it is very tempting to buy a lens on eBay that costs less than $200 with such a large focal range, but unless you have an advanced camera like the Nikon D7000 or better, you are going to run into these issues.

You purchased an entry level camera that costs less than $700 with a lens. If you plan on buying older AF lenses to save money, you really need to buy a D7000 or better camera which have built-in auto-focus motors.

The newer AF-S Nikkor lenses and the lenses made by Tokina, Sigma and Tamron that have internal auto-focus motors will work perfectly well on your amazing D3200 camera. They are the type lens you need to buy if you want full auto-focus and metering function.

I have never owned an entry level camera, so I can't try attaching one of my older AF lens to see if I can duplicate your issue.

All you can do for now it take you camera and lens into a local camera shop and see what they can do to help you.