Are those who insist they are wise wise? Are those that claim enlightenment enlightened?

As far as I know, enlightenment (in the Buddhist sense) comes from destruction of the ego. The most egotistical thing someone can say is that they are enlightened, wise, or somehow superior in their thinking. All of the people I know that claim such a status are the most priggish, self-centered, close-minded individuals I have ever met.

A few quotes:

“An Enlightened Master is ideal only if your goal is to become a Benighted Slave.”
Robert Anton Wilson

“Enlightened people seldom or never possess a sense of responsibility.”
George Orwell

“Egotism: The art of seeing in yourself what others cannot see.”
George V. Higgins

Well, what do you think? Can you explain to me how someone claiming to be special and better than others, or what have you, has sublimated the ego enough to claim enlightenment?