Yes, but even his revenge motives are strategic. He doesn’t want Merle because Merle is more useful sowing discord where he is. Even though I’m sure the Governor would happily kill him if given the opportunity.
I also don’t think his revenge is about his eye, that’s his excuse to Rick. He wants revenge for Michonne killing his zombie daughter that he still had insane hopes of curing.
The man is bat sh!t crazy and evil, but he is not stupid.
“He wants revenge for Michonne killing his zombie daughter that he still had insane hopes of curing.”
I had forgotten Michonne killed the daughter - so, he’s got two scores to settle with her.
I also think the governor is afraid of Merle because Merle kills first and doesn’t even think later - he just kills when he thinks it’s appropriate - or not.