Lawsuits accusing foreign oil companies of being complicit in violence against Nigerians . In a unanimous ruling , the U.S. Supreme Court says a federal law does n't apply in this case . Chief Justice : Ruling for independence will protect Americans living , working or studying overseas . NEW : Shell says ruling does n't weaken human rights but rights advocates disappointed .
Lawsuits accused foreign oil companies of being complicit in violence against Nigerians . In a unanimous ruling , the U.S. Supreme Court says a federal law does n't apply in this case . Chief justice : Ruling for plaintiffs could affect Americans living , working or traveling overseas . NEW : Shell says ruling does n't weaken human rights but rights advocates disappointed .