Crossword Genius

Follow eastern governor (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

doge

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'governor' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'follow eastern' is the wordplay.
'follow' becomes 'dog' (dog can mean to follow or torment).
'eastern' becomes 'e'.
'dog'+'e'='DOGE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for doge that I've seen before include "Old chief magistrate in Venice and Genoa" , "Historically, the chief magistrate of Venice or Genoa" , "Chief of ancient Venice" , "Venetian ruler" , "Ancient lord of Venice" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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